Which practice is important for maintaining breast health during breastfeeding?

Regularly assessing and addressing any soreness or blocked ducts is crucial for maintaining breast health during breastfeeding. This practice allows lactating individuals to monitor their breast condition and promptly respond to any signs of discomfort, soreness, or blocked milk ducts, which can occur due to various factors like improper latch or infrequent feedings. By identifying these issues early, appropriate interventions can be implemented, such as adjusting the baby's latch, increasing feeding frequency, or applying warm compresses to alleviate discomfort, ultimately promoting better milk flow and preventing complications such as mastitis.

In contrast, using heat packs regularly or wearing tight-fitting bras can exacerbate issues rather than remedy them. Heat can be beneficial when used selectively to relieve discomfort, but over-reliance on it may not address the underlying problems. Tight-fitting bras may restrict milk flow and lead to increased pressure on the breasts, potentially causing more issues than they solve. Limiting breastfeeding to three times a day might not provide the necessary stimulation to maintain milk supply or relieve pressure, increasing the risk of blocked ducts and other complications. Therefore, actively monitoring and addressing any pain or issues is the most effective means of ensuring breast health while breastfeeding.