While mastitis can occur during breastfeeding, it’s not something every mother experiences. However, if you do encounter it, many mastitis self-care practices can ease the discomfort and support your breastfeeding journey. Contrary to popular beliefs, breastfeeding with mastitis is, in fact, beneficial for you and your child. In this blog, we will explore how mastitis and breastfeeding go hand in hand. And don’t worry- we will also provide some helpful mastitis self-care tips to speed up your recovery and help you feel better in no time!
What is mastitis?
Mastitis is when your breast becomes inflamed and swollen, commonly due to a bacterial infection from your baby’s mouth or a build-up of breast milk. Leaving it untreated can lead to nursing mothers being forced to stop breastfeeding or developing an abscess. Signs and symptoms of mastitis include,
- Swollen, sore, or patchy breasts
- Burning pain in your breast
- Nipple discharge
- Lumpy or hard area on your breast
- Flu-like symptoms such as fatigue and fever.
Mastitis and breastfeeding: Is it safe?
Yes, it’s safe! The most effective form of mastitis self-care is to keep breastfeeding, even though it might be painful and uncomfortable. Nursing with mastitis actually helps clear the infection faster, and abruptly stopping it might worsen the condition.
How to prevent mastitis?
Of course, prevention is the best form of mastitis self-care, regardless of the safety of breastfeeding with mastitis. The following tips can reduce the risk of developing mastitis for breastfeeding mothers:
- Feed frequently and consistently- avoid long gaps between feedings
- Make sure your baby latches on properly
- Clean your breast after feeding to remove any lingering bacteria from your baby’s mouth.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing or bras
- When you want to stop breastfeeding your child, cut down feeding sessions gradually instead of abruptly stopping
Tips for breastfeeding with mastitis
A common form of mastitis self-care is to take prescribed antibiotics and painkillers to reduce the infection in your breasts. But there are many ways to take care of yourself when breastfeeding with mastitis.
- Always finish the entire course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.
- As a part of mastitis self-care, feed with the affected breast less often to avoid excessive milk production.
- Cold compress your breasts to decrease fullness and ease your pain. Try to pump or feed directly after cold compressing.
- Drink a lot of fluids to help flush out the infection
- Lightly fingertip massage your breasts
- Always exercise caution when taking medications while breastfeeding with mastitis. Talk with your physician and read and follow the directions on the label.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding with mastitis is a safe and effective way of battling the infection while ensuring your child’s well-being. By regularly nursing while practicing these mastitis self-care tips, you will be able to get back on your feet pain-free in no time.