Mastitis

One of my patients came in the other day with a very red and sore breast.  There was a large lump and she was having flu like symptoms.
Mastitis is no picnic.  It is caused by an infection in the breast or when a plugged duct becomes infected. This develops quickly, is usually only on one side, and can be extremely painful.

When to call your provider:
 
• For a fever over 101
 
• If you notice a breast that is painful, red, hot to the touch, or swollen
 
• If you have flu like symptoms or feel achy all over
 
• There is blood or pus coming out of the nipple
 
What to do:
 
Continue to nurse from the affected breast – Your breast will make antibodies to the infection that will be present in the milk and help protect your baby.
Rest as much as possible – This helps you regain energy and continue to make enough milk.
Warm compresses, showers and gentle massage – These all help the plugged duct dissolve and disappear.
Antibiotics – There are several that are effective for you and still safe for the baby. 

(This blog was originally published in 2009)