Mastitis
Mastitis is a common yet painful condition that affects many breastfeeding mothers. While it can be a challenging hurdle in a breastfeeding journey, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of mastitis can help moms manage the condition effectively and continue breastfeeding. Whether it’s your first time experiencing it or you’re looking to prevent future episodes, knowing how to address mastitis is key to maintaining breastfeeding health and comfort.
What is mastitis?
Mastitis is inflammation of the breast causing ductal narrowing which can potentially lead to a bacterial infection.
There are two types of mastitis:
Inflammatory mastitis
Bacterial mastitis
What causes mastitis?
Mastitis is also caused by inadequate or infrequent emptying of breast milk. This backup of milk can aggravate the breast tissue which causes inflammation and swelling. The inflammation in the breast can also throw off the balance of good bacteria or microbiome in the breast leading to infection.
Symptoms of mastitis
Continuous breast pain
Hot, swollen breasts
Red streaks on breast
Breast lumps
Flu like symptoms
Fever of 101F or greater
How do we know the difference between inflammatory mastitis and bacterial mastitis?
The timing! If symptoms resolve after reducing inflammation and within 24 hours it is likely inflammatory mastitis. However if symptoms persist or worsen then you probably have bacterial mastitis.
How do you treat mastitis?
Initially mastitis is treated just like a clogged duct would be since it is caused by inflammation as well. If symptoms continue or worsen after 24 hours please reach out to your birth provider because you likely have bacterial mastitis. Antibiotics are needed to treat this type in most cases. Thankfully, mastitis isn’t contagious and it is completely safe to continue feeding your baby while you receive treatment.
How to prevent both clogged ducts and mastitis
Breastfeed or pump on demand
Make sure your baby has a good latch and is effectively transferring milk
If you’re weaning, do it gradually so your body can adapt
Address causes of milk oversupply
Wear a well-fitting bra
Replace pump parts when necessary
Rest, hydrate, & nourish yourself as much as possible, we all know how difficult that is while taking care of a baby!
Please reach out to a certified lactation consultant if you’re having trouble with any of these. They are an amazing resource!
We offer DAILY THERAPEUTIC ULTRASOUND APPOINTMENTS to serve our community. According to the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM), therapeutic ultrasound is an effective treatment for conditions within the mastitis spectrum. We look forward to helping you from your first latch to your last!
