|
Breastfeeding Problems - Mastits
by: Liz Picket
Mastitis
Women deciding to breastfeed anticipate that it will be
a wonderful bonding experience for her and her baby. Nursing mothers all
know that breast is best but what does she do about a case of mastitis?
Recognizing the problem
There are many warning signs and indicate that you may
be coming down with mastitis.
1) An area on the breast becomes sore and red. The site
of the clogged duct develops a very pronounced red spot which is extremely
painful to the touch and holding or carrying your baby on this side may
become unbearable. You may also see or feel a lump.
2) You may experience pain during nursing sessions. This
may begin as a tingling sensation in the nipple. If there is no pain while
the baby is nursing on that side, it does not mean that you don't in fact
have mastitis.
3) Development of flu-like symptoms. You may experience
a fever along with chills and body aches. Exhaustion is another common
side effect. Many women report not even being able to get out of bed.
What to do if you suspect mastitis
At the first signs of developing mastitis:
1) Get into bed and rest! Even if you can just sit quietly
for a few hours without doing anything such as housework or taking care
of other children or family members, you'll benefit.
2) Apply warm compresses to the site of the clogged duct.
Take a hot shower or even lower your breast into a bowl or pot filled with
warm water and soak for a few minutes, several times an hour.
3) Nurse, nurse, nurse! Try to nurse the baby on the side
of the clogged duct as often and as long as possible to work out the clog.
Massaging the breast while the baby suckles may also help.
4) Remedies such as echinachea and vitamin C can be taken.
Antibiotics may be prescribed by a physician or midwife as well.
How to avoid mastitis
Mastitis starts out as a plugged duct and develops into
an infection. In order to avoid your ducts becoming clogged in the first
place, it is a good idea not to constrict your milk ducts with underwire
bras or tight fitting clothing. Try not to sleep on your stomach as this
may also lead to a plugged duct. Avoid supplementing with bottles because
this may lead to an overproduction of breast milk. When a feeding is missed,
breasts may become engorged and ducts can get plugged up. Breast compression
or breast massage before latching is also a helpful tool to avoiding clogged
ducts all together.
About The Author
Liz Picket is a staff writer for www.nursing-mommy.com.
Visit nursing-mommy.com for tons
of information on breast feeding your baby. liz@nursing-mommy.com
|
