What is mastitis?
Mastitis, possibly the most feared word in the lactation dictionary, is a condition in which breast tissues become inflamed. It is most commonly caused by a blocked milk duct, which can lead to an infection. This condition is most common in pregnant women because their breasts are preparing to lactate and the increased blood flow and hormonal changes can make them more susceptible to infection. Symptoms include breast pain, swelling, redness, sensitivity to touch, and other flu-like symptoms like chills and aches. Aside from these physical manifestations, mastitis almost always leaves the mother tired and run down— this being an additional stressor on top of the other thousands of responsibilities of taking care of a newborn.
What causes mastitis?
Blocked milk ducts, bacteria, and stress are the top three most common causes of mastitis.
1.) Blocked milk ducts: The milk ducts in the breasts can become blocked because of a variety of factors, including poor breastfeeding technique, an ill-fitting bra, or a breast infection. When the milk ducts become blocked, it can lead to inflammation and infection.
2.) Bacteria: Infection caused by bacteria buildup happens when bacteria from the baby’s mouth enter the nursing mother’s cracked or sore nipple and spreads to the surrounding tissue.
3.) Stress: Physical, emotional, and hormonal stress can cause changes in the mother’s body that could lead to the development of mastitis.
How to prevent mastitis?
It is important for nursing mamas to be extra cautious when breastfeeding to avoid developing mastitis symptoms. Taking these steps can help prevent it:
1.) Breastfeed regularly: Although it’s tempting to quit breastfeeding altogether when symptoms become debilitating, continuing actually helps prevent bacteria from building up and won’t do the baby any harm. However, it is still best to consult your doctor if symptoms persist.
2.) Drink plenty of fluids: Avoid dehydration when breastfeeding. Drinking plenty of water will help keep your milk supply up. More milk means more feeding sessions and more opportunities to clear clogs and discomfort.
3.) Alternate breasts when breastfeeding.
4.) Wear the right bra: Make sure to wear a comfortable bra that is not too tight and restrictive. Avoid bras with under-wiring as they can contribute to blocked ducts.
5.) Take care of your nipples: Air-dry your nipples after you breastfeed. This can prevent irritation and cracks. In addition, use lanolin-based or any organic cream such as Lansinoh and Buds and Bloom to further protect your nipples.
6.) Find the nursing position that works for you: When you and your baby are aligned, the baby can latch on to the areola, not just the nipple, and this can help drain all areas of your breast.
How to treat mastitis
If you have mastitis or developing early symptoms, you have to treat it immediately and the right way to keep the infection from getting worse. It is important to note that when mastitis is not treated promptly, it can lead to complications such as breast abscesses, which require surgical drainage. Treatment includes:
1.) Take antibiotics: Since mastitis is often caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics are often prescribed to clear the infection. The type of antibiotic prescribed will depend on the specific bacteria causing the infection; hence, it is best to consult your doctor right away.
2.) Regular emptying of breasts: Breastfeed or pump regularly. This helps prevent more bacteria from collecting in the breast.
3.) Warm compress: Applying warm compress to the affected breast can help to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as encourage milk flow. This can be done by using a warm wet cloth or a heating pad set on low.
4.) Draining the abscess: Healing can take 5 to 7 days.
Getting mastitis when you’re a new mama can seem like a bad joke, but remember that this is only temporary.. By knowing the signs and getting treated early, you’ll be back to your normal (although exhausted) self in no time. Breathe and get some rest, too, while you’re at it!
