A postpartum woman who is not breastfeeding is advised against binding her breasts to prevent painful engorgement. What is the rationale?

The rationale behind advising a postpartum woman who is not breastfeeding against binding her breasts is primarily that such binding may cause more leaking of breast milk. When the breasts are bound tightly, it can create pressure that may stimulate the milk ducts and lead to an overflow of milk, resulting in increased leakage.

In postpartum situations, the body naturally adjusts to the hormonal fluctuations following delivery. Without breastfeeding, the levels of certain hormones will eventually stabilize, and any stimulation to the breasts, including binding, can disrupt this process and potentially lead to discomfort or increased milk production. Thus, allowing the body to naturally manage engorgement and hormonal regulation without the added pressure from binding is crucial for the comfort of the woman.

Other considerations, while pertinent in a broader context, do not directly address this particular situation. For instance, restricting fluids or preventing hormonal fluctuations doesn't apply to the immediate concern related to binding and milk leakage.