It’s been a rough few nights and you’re feeling run down – probably just life as a newborn mama, right? You feel a little hot and flustered, it’s a little harder to muster up the energy to pick the baby up out of the cot, and your back is a little sore. Could just be feeling a bit off? Then you notice that your bra is cutting into you and you feel a sore lump like a rock in your breast. It’s red, hot and tender to the touch and when you nurse, it feels like a clog pulling at your nipple. We hate to say it mama, but it sounds like the dreaded Mastitis.
Whilst we’re used to pushing on through pretty much anything these days, this is where it’s really important to stop, act early and take care of yourself. Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast(s) and can send you downhill really quickly and result in infection.
Mastitis is quite common and can be caused by a number of things:
- Poor attachment when breastfeeding (if this happens often, it could also be a result of your little one having a tongue tie)
- Nipple damage
- A long break between breastfeeds
- Breasts that are engorged and feel too full
- Blocked milk ducts
- Sudden ceasing of breastfeeding, without any gradual plan to stop
- Wearing a bra or sports crop that is too small/tight for an extended period of time
How to Help
Take a warm shower or place a warm washcloth on your breast for a few minutes before your next feed to help your milk flow more easily. Use a massage ball (link to Lactamo ball) or wand (link to PMD wand) to help massage the clog.
Nurse often on the affected side in a variety of different holds – dangle or hover feeding can be particularly effective – don’t worry, your milk is safe for your baby to drink. It can be helpful to start a feed on the affected breast, as that is when your baby’s sucking is the strongest.
Take ibuprofen or paracetamol for the pain – these are safe for breastfeeding.
Use cold packs (link) on the affected area or the old midwife trick of frozen cabbage leaves in between feeds to relieve the heat.
Stay hydrated and rest up as much as possible! The washing can wait. This is a time where you should be delegating as much as you can. If you don’t feel any improvements within a few hours, it’s time to call in the big guns and see a doctor so you can be prescribed the correct antibiotics. Tell the clinic receptionist that you think you might have mastitis so that they know it’s urgent.
Prevention
Fully empty breasts during feeds or pumping and avoid wearing bras or sports crops that are too tight. If you sleep in a crop top, make sure it’s a soft one.
Remember – motherhood is already one of the hardest things in the world! While we’re used to putting ourselves last (even as new mums), the most important thing is to take care of you, Mama, so that you can then take care of everyone else. Don’t be afraid to ask for help to take the load off a bit while you recover.
Disclaimer
Markot does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided on the website or incorporated into it by reference. Markot provides this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your healthcare provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Department.
