🤱 Mastitis (breast inflammation) that can occur during breastfeeding

🤔 What is Mastitis? (What is Mastitis?)

Mastitis is an inflammation, or swelling, of the breasts of breastfeeding mothers , especially the milk ducts and glands. This can happen due to cracked nipples or blocked ducts due to poor milk flow. This allows germs from outside the breast to enter and grow in the milk.

🤒 What are the symptoms of mastitis? (What are the Symptoms?)

At first, you may feel a lump in your breast. Then the area starts to hurt. Then it becomes red, swollen, and painful to touch (see diagram). You may also have fever, fatigue , weakness, and muscle aches and pains (just like you have the flu).

😟 What are the risks? (What are the Risks?)

If treated quickly and properly, mastitis will start to get better within 48 hours. However, doctors consider this a serious problem that needs to be treated quickly. Because if not treated quickly, a breast abscess can develop. In such cases, needle aspiration or surgery may be necessary. In addition to abscesses, a bacterial infection , such as candida ( yeast infection – Thrush), can also develop. This often happens after taking antibiotics . Candida infection causes a lot of pain in the breasts. It feels like a hot knife stabbing you. This is often felt during and after breastfeeding. An ultrasound examination is the only way to find out if there is a breast abscess .

💊 What is the treatment for this? (What is the Treatment?)

• Antibiotics: Your doctor will give you antibiotics for about 10 days. If you are allergic to penicillin, tell your doctor.
• Painkillers : Take aspirin or paracetamol for pain and fever.
• Feed frequently from the breast that is in pain.
• Breastfeed frequently: Breastfeed frequently. Start breastfeeding on the side that hurts first. This will not cause any problems.
• Check to see if the baby is latching on properly. Also, try feeding in different positions. This will ensure that the milk comes out in all directions.
• Before breastfeeding, warm up the sore spot: take a hot bath, or place something on it, such as a hot towel or hot water bottle.
• After you've finished breastfeeding, let your breasts cool down a bit: Place a towel in the freezer.
• When you're done feeding, you can wash and put a cabbage leaf in the fridge (this is not mandatory).
• While breastfeeding, massage the sore area by moving the nipple to the side.
• If necessary, squeeze the milk out by hand.
• Get plenty of rest: Take breaks when you feel tired. Find someone to help with household chores.
• Eat a well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water.

🛡️ How can this be prevented? (How can it be prevented?)

Breast engorgement and cracked nipples are things to watch out for. Check to see if your breasts are letting milk out properly. There are several reasons why your milk may not be coming out properly. Overproduction of milk, not breastfeeding at the right time, not emptying the breast completely (for example, breastfeeding too quickly, not latching on properly, breastfeeding in the wrong position), fatigue, nutritional deficiencies , and breast engorgement (for example, wearing a tight bra, sleeping on your back).

Empty the milk from the breasts, either by expressing with your hand, or if the baby sleeps a lot, wake him up and feed him. If there seems to be a lot of milk, feed only from one side at a time. It is also a good idea to reduce caffeine and smoking (if the baby's father drinks, tell him not to drink).

Remember: 'Heat the breast, which means remove the excess milk.'

NB: There is nothing wrong with breastfeeding from the affected breast, as long as your doctor says no.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Mastitis

These are some of the most frequently asked questions about mastitis. If you have any more questions, ask your family health worker or doctor. They will be able to tell you exactly what to do. 😊👍