Mastitis is a condition characterized by an infection in the breast tissue of one or both breasts. It usually occurs in breastfeeding women.
There is often a hard, painful area in the breast. This condition is caused by a blocked milk duct or bacteria entering the breast through the skin. Most often, this condition develops within the first 3 months after childbirth, but it can also show symptoms after 2 years.
Mastitis can also develop in some mothers as a result of incorrectly weaning their babies. In most cases, it is necessary to continue breastfeeding during mastitis. Mastitis usually occurs in only one breast.
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Symptoms of mastitis
Symptoms of mastitis can develop rapidly. These include:
- Redness and swelling in the breast area;
- Pain when touching the affected area of the breast;
- A sensation of warmth when touching the affected area of the breast;
- A burning sensation in the breast, which may be constant or occur specifically during breastfeeding;
- Flu-like symptoms.
The following symptoms may be present:
- Feeling anxiety and stress;
- Chills and shivering;
- Elevated body temperature;
- Fatigue;
- Body aches;
- A sense of unease.
Treatment
The first line of treatment involves self-care measures, such as ensuring proper breast drainage during feeding.
The doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. They will also recommend methods for treating blocked milk ducts if this is the cause.
Some studies indicate that antibiotics do not help in this case, and their use during breastfeeding may be prohibited. Non-medicinal remedies should be tried first.
If complications occur, the situation develops rapidly, and it seems more serious, hospitalization and antibiotic treatment are recommended.
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Causes of mastitis
Mastitis usually occurs during breastfeeding as a result of a blocked milk duct or the formation of a plug. The blockage causes milk stagnation, which happens when the produced milk is not released during feeding and remains in the breast.
In this situation, the following conditions may occur in the infant:
- They do not latch onto the breast properly;
- They have difficulty sucking milk from the breast;
- Feeding frequency decreases.
Milk ducts can also become blocked due to pressure on the breast, for example, from tight clothing. Often, mothers place a finger on the same spot every day so that the breast does not block the baby's nasal passage. This area later becomes a clogged duct.
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Anything that prevents the proper expression of milk usually causes milk to stagnate, and this often leads to the blockage of milk ducts. Generally, bacteria do not multiply in fresh breast milk. However, if the milk ducts are blocked or milk stagnates in them, there is a high probability of infections multiplying there.
Bacteria on the surface of the skin can enter the breast through small cracks or pores.
The primary factor in the development of conditions such as mastitis is a new mother's lack of knowledge and skills regarding proper breastfeeding.
To resolve such issues more easily and safely, the "Lalu" team has been preparing essential information for new mothers.
Home treatment for mastitis
The following self-care methods are often used to clear a blocked milk duct during breastfeeding:
- Learn about proper breastfeeding techniques;
- Drink plenty of fluids and get enough rest;
- Breastfeed frequently, or express breast milk if feeding is not possible;
- Start feeding with the affected breast, which allows for better drainage;
- After feeding, gently express the remaining milk;
- Consult with a specialist to check whether the baby is latching and feeding properly;
- Try different feeding positions to find the most effective way to empty the breast;
- Change positions frequently;
- Warm the breast with a warm compress before feeding, as this can sometimes make it easier for the baby to feed.
- Apply cool compresses after feeding;
- Wear loose clothing;
- The best way to facilitate drainage is to point the baby's chin toward the blocked duct;
- To relieve pain, place a cloth moistened with warm water on the breast.
