Mummy Sharess: My Experience with Lactation Mastitis

The sensation of being able to breastfeed my baby is out of this world. I just love the expression on my baby's face during that nursing session. However, I had no idea that breastfeeding could make me sick to my stomach until I developed mastitis. It happened when my baby was about a month old, and I'm still in confinement. I awoke shivering, with a high fever, nausea, and my right breast felt like it was about to explode. It was nearly impossible to touch and felt like it contained large, hard rocks. The mastitis was extremely painful, and when I tried to massage it, it hurt so much that I burst into tears because I couldn't bear the pain. I was wondering why this is happening and how my breast could suddenly become so hard. Did I make a mistake while breastfeeding? Fortunately, I was with my mother-in-law at the time and she advised me to apply cold cabbage to relieve the pain and shrink the swelling. The next day, however, it was still swollen. I tried to look up the name of this condition because I had no idea what I was going through and came across lactation mastitis. After reading what it's about, I'm pretty sure that's what I had. So, I began looking for remedies to alleviate my pain because it was becoming increasingly difficult to breastfeed my baby in this state. How Does Lactation Mastitis Happen? Image credit: Canva Breastfeeding is difficult enough as it is, and when mastitis occurs, it seems like the worst thing that could happen in the nursing journey. Mastitis is an infection that develops in breast tissue, according to the Cleveland Clinic. One breast becomes swollen, red, and inflamed as a result of the painful condition. It can affect both breasts in rare cases. And it is most common during the first six to twelve weeks of breastfeeding. Mayo Clinic states that the main cause of lactation mastitis is milk trapped in the breast. Other causes include a blocked milk duct, which occurs when a breast does not completely empty during feedings, and bacteria entering the breast causing infection. The signs and symptoms may differ from one mother to the next and may include: Swollen breasts Breast lumps Breast pain or burning sensation that worsens with breastfeeding Warmth or sensitivity to touch in the breasts Fever of 38.3 degrees Celsius or higher and chills Fatigue and feeling ill Nausea and vomiting Headaches Skin redness, frequently in a wedge pattern (Source: Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic) A lactation specialist tells Michigan Health that the risk factors of lactation mastitis are infrequent feedings, missed feedings, or abrupt weaning as the unrelieved engorgement, which means the breasts are overfilled with milk, can block ducts. Poor latching at the breast or an ineffective suck from your child can also cut or damage the nipple, potentially leading to infection. Home Remedies to Cure Mastitis Image credit: Canva Thankfully, mastitis is treatable at home, and I found some remedies that I have saved in case it happens again. One thing is certain: I learned that it's best to keep nursing even if you have mastitis because it will help the condition get better. The home remedies listed below may be able to help before the infection becomes more serious. Staying in bed and getting enough rest can be extremely beneficial to healing. Continue breastfeeding because the suction of the baby can help dislodge clogs and clear mastitis. Experiment with other nursing positions that may help dislodge clogged ducts. A study found that cool cabbage leaves are just as effective as hot compresses for breast discomfort and engorgement. However, keep in mind that cabbage leaves are also used to help dry up milk supply, so don't overdo it. You can also substitute a hot compress or a warm shower. Breast massage can be most effective when performed while feeding your baby and in the direction of your nipple. Consuming raw garlic may act as a broad-spectrum antibiotic and stimulate the immune system. Continue hydrating and drinking plenty of water will assist you in maintaining your milk supply. More milk means more feedings and chances to clear clogs and discomfort. (Source: Healthline) Personally, I found that using warm breast thermos pads (like the one shown below) helped to reduce the swelling. I try to avoid using cabbage when I know it will reduce my milk supply because I want to continue breastfeeding. Image credit: Autumnz When to Seek Medical Attention Image credit: Canva Knowing this is crucial because you need to schedule a visit with your doctor if home remedies don't seem to be working within the first 24 to 48 hours. Healthline lists some warning signs of lactation mastitis that you should look out for and seek medical attention for, which include: A fever of 38.3°C or higher Pus or blood in your breast milk A breast with red striations (from your areola to your underarm) Breasts that are flaming, hot, or swollen Cracked nipples with signs of infection chills Chills and other flu-like symptoms that are worsening Ways to Prevent Lactation Mastitis Image credit: Canva Even though it can occasionally be impossible to predict when mastitis will strike, being aware of how to prevent it will put you one step closer to avoiding the excruciating infection. The following are some methods that breastfeeding mothers can use to lessen their risk of developing lactation mastitis: Ensure that your baby properly latches on during feedings After each breastfeeding session, air out your nipples Fully drain milk from breasts when nursing If you need to stop feeding, place your finger on a nipple to break your baby's suction Avoid wearing nursing pads or tight-fitting bras that keep nipples moist Allow your baby to completely empty one side before switching to the other breast Change breastfeeding position to make sure fully emptying one breast Consult your doctor about quitting smoking if you smoke (Source: Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic) Another strategy I've found effective for preventing mastitis is using a breast pump when I feel like my breast isn't completely empty. Final note: Be sure to take extra precautions to prevent lactation mastitis from getting worse. When in doubt, it is preferable to visit a doctor to seek medical advice and receive treatment. You've got this, mummies! For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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