Mastitis: Painful Breastfeeding Condition – Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Mastitis is a common and painful condition among breastfeeding mothers, characterized by inflammation of the breast tissue. This condition can be triggered by obstruction, infection, or allergic reactions and typically affects only one breast. While mastitis is most prevalent during the first 2-3 weeks postpartum, it can occur at any stage of breastfeeding.

Symptoms of Mastitis

Mastitis symptoms can develop rapidly and include both local and systemic signs.

Local Symptoms:

• Swollen, hot, and tender area on the breast
• Redness or a wedge-shaped lump
• Burning sensation in the breast, constant or during breastfeeding
• Nipple discharge (white or streaked with blood)

Systemic Symptoms:

• Flu-like symptoms (aches, high fever, chills)
• Body aches
• General fatigue

Bacterial Mastitis

In cases where mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection, additional symptoms may include:

• Unusual breast warmth
• Severe tenderness
• Pain during breastfeeding
• Pronounced fatigue

The presence of Bacterial infection often necessitates medical attention and possible antibiotic treatment.

Causes of Mastitis

Mastitis often results from factors that impede milk flow or cause milk stasis. Some common causes include:

1. Oversupply (hyperlactation) is often the initial indicator, leading to painful inflammation that narrows the milk ducts. This condition can then progress to inflammatory mastitis.
2. Engorgement or inadequate milk removal due to latching difficulties, ineffective suckling, tongue-tie, nipple pain, or an oversupply of milk.
3. Infrequent or skipped feedings, which can occur due to various reasons such as nipple pain, teething, busy schedules, or supplementing with formula.
4. Pressure on the milk ducts from tight clothing, improper sleeping positions, or physical activities.
5. Stress, fatigue, and weakened immunity can also increase the risk of developing mastitis.
6. Inflammatory responses due to injury, bacterial or yeast infections, or allergies.

Treatments for Mastitis

1. Feeding on DemandTo manage oversupply and reduce the risk of mastitis, it is essential to feed the baby on demand and avoid extra pumping. This helps to balance milk production and prevents the cycle of inflammation and duct narrowing.
2. Using Ice for Inflammation Instead of using warm compresses, which were previously recommended, it is now advised to use cold compresses or ice packs to reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected area.
3. Ibuprofen for Inflammation Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help decrease inflammation and alleviate pain (on the advice of your Doctor)
4. Gentle Hand Expression and Massage Hand expressing milk can relieve discomfort without overstimulating milk production. Gentle massage techniques, such as light sweeping motions from the nipple towards the armpit, can help reduce fluid build-up and ease inflammation.
5. Sunflower Lecithin and ProbioticsSunflower lecithin is recommended to prevent recurrent plugged ducts by reducing the milk’s viscosity. Probiotics, are beneficial for both treating and preventing mastitis.

Understanding mastitis’s symptoms, causes, and treatments can help breastfeeding mothers manage and alleviate this condition more effectively.

In essence, breastfeeding should not be a painful experience. If you are experiencing pain or suspect you have symptoms of an infection, reach out to a lactation consultant or your GP for a consultation. Remember, you do not have to navigate this alone—support is available.