08/02/2023
✨MASTITIS✨
What’s is mastitis?
Mastitis is an infection in the breast tissue that causes pain and fevers.
What causes mastitis?
The most common causes of mastitis are a clogged milk duct and/ or bacteria entering the breast (typically through cracked or damaged ni***es which is often caused by cluster feeding and poor attachment).
What are the signs/ symptoms of mastitis?
The signs/ symptoms include:
🧸Pain to the breast
🧸Redness
🧸Swelling
🧸Flu like symptoms (fevers, chills, headaches, aching joints)
How to prevent developing mastitis?
There are many steps you can take to avoid developing mastitis. These include:
🧸Feeding from both breasts
🧸Try not to miss or put off breast feeds
🧸Pump or express if breasts begin to feel full or sore
🧸Seek support to ensure baby is latching to the breast and feeding well (such as a lactation consultant)
🧸Ice packs after a feed or if you are suppressing lactation
🧸Warm compresses before a feed to encourage let down
What to do if you believe you have mastitis?
🧸Seek medical attention (GP, midwife)
🧸Continue to feed and/ or express as normal, or more regularly if needed
🧸Warm compresses prior to feeding
🧸Massage the breast, particularly any lumps towards the ni**le when feeding or showering
🧸Ice packs after feeds
🧸Pain relief medication (Panadol, nurofen)
🧸Try to rest and relax as much as you can
