Mastitis

Mastitis is defined as an infection of the tissue of the breast.

The symptoms are:

Breast enlargement on one side only, Breast lump, Plugged duct (feels like a pebble in the breast or a lump) Breast pain or tenderness in a defined spot to start with then generalized, Fever and flu-like symptoms including nausea and vomiting, Itching, Nipple discharge (may contain pus), Nipple sensation changes, Swelling, tenderness, redness, and warmth in breast tissue and Tender or enlarged lymph nodes in armpit on the same side

What causes this breast infection?

Either a breakdown on your nipple (injury) allow the bacteria in or the backup/lack of emptying of milk make it more likely. Many times it begins with a simple plugged duct that does not get opened. If you find a plugged duct, apply warm moist heat and massage it deeply while emptying frequently. Breastfeeding pain is not ever NORMAL.

In my practice the 3 biggest causes of a mastitis breastfeeding, I have seen are: nipple injury, moms who skip feeds or pump too ofen (pumping doesnot empty the way a nursing baby will) in the first few weeks, and last moms who wear underwire bras. The wires can obstruct the flow of milk.Other causes can include delayed milk letdown and decreased breastfeeding because of illness.

1. Antibiotics prescribed by your doctor,

2. Frequent nursing,(your milk is NOT infected)

3. Warm or cold compresses and

4. Warm shower treatment. A warm shower treatment is simply taking a warm shower allowing the warm water to run over your breasts, support breast with one hand while gently massaging/expressing milk with the other. Once milk is flowing rather easily get out of shower and immediately nurse your baby or pump. This will provide temporary relief.

How do you know when it is time for antibiotics? I tell my clients, if it is just a sore "spot" on your breast, massage and nurse. If it progresses to anything more (ie redness, warmth, body fever, ect) it is time for antibiotics IMMEDIATELY. Most antibiotics are safe while breastfeeding.

Do not delay contacting your healthcare provider if you feel you might have a breast infection. A breast abcess can form, and these usually require surgical drainage. Yuck and ouch

Maybe not a breast infection: Could it be Thrush?

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