Keep your family safe from germs and bacteria
What is mastitis?
I have had a lot of pain in one breast, with a patch of redness appearing near my armpit a couple of days ago. My doctor says I have mastitis. Please tell me what this is and how it will affect breast-feeding.
Typically, a breast infection comes on suddenly. The mum has a fever and flu-like symptoms and her breast is usually red, hot and swollen - often in the upper outer quarter. Mastitis usually occurs in only one breast (more often in the left breast) and in one particular area.
Mastitis is most likely to occur in the first three months after having a baby, with the highest incidence being in the first three weeks. It is important for a breast-feeding mother with these symptoms to seek evaluation from a doctor.
It is important to continue breast-feeding while being treated as the infection will be resolved more quickly. Antibodies in your milk serve to protect your baby from the bacteria causing the infection.
Several conditions seem to predispose a breast-feeding mum to mastitis: fatigue; stress; a blocked duct; an abrupt change in feeding pattern; engorgement; oversupply; a tight or underwired bra; cracked nipple.
The recommended treatment is to feed your baby from both breasts. You can begin on the unaffected side first, if this makes you more comfortable. This allows the milk to let down in the affected breast before you begin feeding on that side. If your babies do not feed well from both breasts, use an electric breast pump (which can be rented short-term) following feeds. It is best to feed frequently to keep your breasts soft and more comfortable. Moist heat applied prior to and while feeding can help the milk to flow. You can follow feeds with ice applied to the affected area. (Put a cloth underneath the ice pack to protect tender skin.)
Bed rest is very important when you have mastitis. Climb into bed with your baby and allow yourself to rest. It is also a good idea to increase your fluid intake at this time. Your GP will prescribe a course of antibiotics. Since not all antibiotics are effective in treating mastitis, they should be chosen carefully and should be taken for at least two weeks.
Your baby may be fussy while breast-feeding due to the salty taste of your milk rather than a decreased supply. Sodium levels rise in breast milk during mastitis. Some babies refuse the affected breast. If this is the case, you will need to pump as often as your baby would feed to remain comfortable and help you heal. Hope you're feeling better soon.
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