Mastitis - Breastfeeding Woes

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast usually caused by infection. Occurring during the first six months of breast-feeding, this is a common ailment affecting new mothers. Let’s discuss how to overcome mastitis.

When the breast becomes too full of milk, because a feeding has been delayed or your breast has not been emptied, this will result in a clogged duct. This can cause the infection known as mastitis. Another cause of infection to the breast can be due to cracked nipples. You may feel a sharp pain in your nipple while your baby is nursing, which may mean there is a thin crack in your nipple. This can happen if you do not dry your nipples thoroughly after each feeding. Your doctor will prescribe cream to apply to your nipple and the crack should take a few days to heal. You can, meanwhile, continue to breastfeed your baby using the other breast.

Mastitis may be exhibited by pain, redness, swelling and fever. A baby cannot get milk from a swollen nipple, so you need to remove excess milk before you breastfeed. Using a breast pump is ideal. As stated earlier, mastitis is common and is treatable with antibiotics. You can continue to breastfeed, however, it is important that if you are diagnosed with mastitis to follow these simple rules: rest; drink plenty of liquids and before you breastfeed, either soak your breasts in warm water or place a warm towel over the affected breast.

Continuing to breastfeed from the affected breast will not only help to clear up the mastitis, but is entirely safe for your baby. You can also switch to the other breast if the affected one is too painful for your child to breastfeed. Note that mastitis should be treated immediately to avoid any further complication.