A Midwive’s Advice on Mastitis
What to Do When You Get Mastitis: Advice from a Midwife
Mastitis can be a painful and challenging condition for breastfeeding mothers. Here are some steps to take if you suspect you have mastitis:
1. Continue Breastfeeding: It's crucial to keep breastfeeding or expressing milk frequently from the affected breast. This helps prevent milk from pooling and worsening the condition. Fully emptying the breast during each feeding or pumping session is essential. If baby is not emptying the breast fully, it may be helpful to hand express or pump a little to drain it.
2. Rest and Hydration: Get plenty of rest and stay well-hydrated. Mastitis can make you feel run down, so taking care of yourself is essential for recovery. This is also the time to get really good nutrition. Think bone broth, herbal chicken soup, ginger/turmeric tea, minimal sugars, lots of cooked veggies, and really avoiding vegetables oils, and instead use ghee, butter, or coconut oil.
3. Apply Cold Compress! Yes, Cold: Use cold compresses on the affected area of your breast.
Why Cold Compress Helps with a Clogged Milk Duct
When a breastfeeding woman experiences a clogged milk duct, applying a cold compress can offer relief and help resolve the issue.
A cold compress works by reducing inflammation, soothing pain, and improving blood circulation in the affected area.
Reduction of Inflammation: The application of a cold compress causes vasoconstriction, which narrows the blood vessels, reduces blood flow to the area, and decreases swelling and inflammation. This can help alleviate discomfort and pressure associated with the clogged milk duct.
Pain Relief: Cold therapy can help numb the nerves around the clogged milk duct, providing natural pain relief. It also inhibits the transmission of pain signals to the brain, thus reducing the sensation of pain.
Improved Blood Circulation: Cold compresses can promote blood circulation when applied in a rhythmic manner. Enhanced circulation can aid in clearing the clogged duct by facilitating the removal of accumulated milk and reducing the risk of infection.
4. Massage: Gently massaging the affected breast while feeding or pumping can help to loosen any blocked ducts and improve milk flow.
5. Take Ibuprofen: Take 600mg every 6 hours. Ibuprofen helps manage symptoms of pain, reduces inflammation, and can help treat a fever if it arises. However, if you do break a fever, seek medical advise right away. You should monitor your temperature every 6-8 hours.
6. Take Vitamin C: Take 1000mg of vitamin c everyday. You can also safely add probiotics and zinc.
7. Take Echinacea Tea: Take echinacea tea twice a day, or as a tincture, 2 droppers full 3 times a day for 10 days.
8. Take Bee Propolis & Poke Root: Take 10-15 drops twice a day of the bee propolis & 2 drops of poke root daily. ***Poke Root tincture is very very effective! Most natural stores will have this on hand.
9. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or healthcare provider. They can provide additional guidance and support, and in some cases, medical intervention may be necessary.
10. Continue Monitoring: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If you don't see improvement within 24-48 hours of implementing these measures, or if your symptoms worsen, seek medical advice promptly.
Remember, mastitis is usually a temporary setback and with proper care, most women recover fully. Take care and be kind to yourself during this time.
Warm regards,
Chandra
Ayurdoula
