Mastitis

Cause:
Bacteria can enter the breast through an opening in the nipple or a break in the skin. When breastfeedings are delayed or missed or when babies are feeding at irregular times the breasts overfill and a breast infection can occur. The mother has "flu-like" symptoms with fever. The breast is red, hot and painful.


Recommended Treatment:

• Call your doctor. A prescription medication (antibiotic) may be necessary. Although your symptoms may improve in 24-48 hours, take the medication until it is gone. (10-14 days).
• Continue to nurse on both breasts. The infection will not harm your baby. Breastfeed every  1 1/2-3 hours during the day and every 2-3 hours at night. Start each feeding on the uninfected breast until the letdown occurs, then switch to the infected breast and nurse only until the breast is well-drained. If necessary, pump or hand express to soften the breast and relieve fullness.
• Put warm packs or ice packs on the infected area to relieve pain. Warm washcloths, a warm shower or tub bath or soaking the breasts in a pan of warm water works well. Some women prefer cold packs and use bags of frozen peas wrapped in a cold washcloth.
• Drink enough fluid to satisfy your thirst. Water and unsweetened fruit juices are suggested.
• Take aspirin or acetaminophen for pain.
• Get plenty of rest. Take the baby to bed with you to save time and energy.

To Prevent Breast Infection:

• Position the baby correctly on the breast.
• If you delay or miss a feeding or if the baby nurses poorly, hand express or pump to soften the breast and relieve fullness.
• Use 2-3 different breastfeeding positions each day.
• Avoid bras that are too tight or bind, making it difficult to relieve fullness in all parts of the breast. Avoid bras with underwires.
• Wean gradually. Pump or hand express to relieve fullness.