Q&A: How Can I Fix Breast Infections for Good?

To treat any reccuring breastfeeding problem, it is most benificial to know whatare the risk factors and causes of the problem and then take steps to alleviatethem and thereby eliminating the reccurance. The underlying cause of mastitis isthe pooling of milk within the breast, which leads to inflammation and eventuallyinfection. Poor removal of milk can be caused by a variety of factors such aslimiting the time that baby spends at the breast, skipping feedings, a pluggedduct, or even oversupply. Infection caused by cracked, bleeding nipples due topoor latch-on technique may also cause a mastitis to develop. Finally, stress,fatigue, anemia, or a weakened immune system may cause a mom to feelrun-down and become susceptible to a breast infection. After addressing thepredisposing factors leading to the recurrent mastitis, the treatment shouldbegin as soon as the symptoms are present. Soak your breast in a bowl of verywarm (don’t burn yourself) water and gently massage the breast. Immediatelybreastfeed on the affected breast first, utilizing breast massage during thefeeding to try to help in milk removal. Some moms use a hospital-grade breastpump after feeding their baby to help ensure complete drainage of milk from thebreast. A cold compress applied to the breast after the feeding will help with anyadditional inflammation and subsequent pain. Since fatigue is both a symptomand cause of mastitis, it is essential that moms get some extra rest, keep theirfluids and nutrition balanced, and get some help while they are recovering frommastitis. If symptoms persist, contact a healthcare professional.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.