References:
- Toronto Public Health - Breastfeeding Protocols for Health Care Providers | Protocol #7: Mastitis
- MyHealth.Alberta.ca – Mastitis While Breastfeeding
What is Mastitis?
- A condition where the breast becomes inflamed
- Sometimes due to an infection
- Usually occurs in the first few weeks after starting to breastfeed or chestfeed
Causes
- Breasts not emptied properly
- Stress
- Tiredness
- Sore or cracked nipples
- Blocked milk duct
- High supply of breast milk
- Engorgement
- Pressure on the breast from tight clothing or holding the baby
- Weaning quickly
- History of mastitis
Symptoms
- Symptoms usually only happen in one breast
- Symptoms include:
- Red, swollen , painful area on the breast
- Firm and shiny skin on the breast
- Flu-like symptoms such as chills, aches, and tiredness
- Fever
- Swelling under the armpits (swollen lymph nodes)
Treatment
- See your health care provider
- They may provide you with antibiotics to take
- Take Ibuprofen (Advil) and/or Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain
- Continue breastfeeding
- Breastfeed early and try feeding many times
- Express milk if feedings are missed or cut short to make sure breast is drained fully
- Treat cause if known and is able to be treated
Breastfeeding with a blocked milk duct
- Before:
- Apply heat to breast, back and shoulders
- Apply heat and massage the area with symptoms
- If white dot at the end of the nipple, apply moist heat and roll the nipple gently
- During:
- Offer the breast with mastitis first
- Change feeding positions
- Massage the area with mastitis, massage towards the nipple
- Ensure proper position and latch
- Ensure baby is sucking and swallowing well
- Between feedings:
- Wear a supportive bra that fits well
- Avoid putting pressure on the breast for a long period of time
- Don’t use pacifiers or bottles
- Take care of yourself. Rest and eat well
- Put cold on the swollen area
Further Your Learning:
Shareable Resources for Clients:
Referral Sources: