Breastfeeding Problems - Mastits
By Liz Picket
Mastitis
Women deciding to breastfeed anticipate that it will be a
wonderful bonding experience for her and her baby. Nursing mothers all know
that breast is best but what does she do about a case of mastitis?
Recognizing the problem
There are many warning signs and indicate that you may be
coming down with mastitis.
1) An
area on the breast becomes sore and red. The site of the clogged duct develops
a very pronounced red spot which is extremely painful to the touch and holding
or carrying your baby on this side may become unbearable. You may also see or
feel a lump.
2) You
may experience pain during nursing sessions. This may begin as a tingling
sensation in the nipple. If there is no pain while the baby is nursing on that
side, it does not mean that you don't in fact have mastitis.
3) Development
of flu-like symptoms. You may experience a fever along with chills and body
aches. Exhaustion is another common side effect. Many women report not even
being able to get out of bed.
What to do if you suspect mastitis
At the first signs of developing mastitis:
1) Get
into bed and rest! Even if you can just sit quietly for a few hours without
doing anything such as housework or taking care of other children or family
members, you'll benefit.
2) Apply
warm compresses to the site of the clogged duct. Take a hot shower or even
lower your breast into a bowl or pot filled with warm water and soak for a few
minutes, several times an hour.
3) Nurse,
nurse, nurse! Try to nurse the baby on the side of the clogged duct as often
and as long as possible to work out the clog. Massaging the breast while the
baby suckles may also help.
4) Remedies
such as echinachea and vitamin C can be taken. Antibiotics may be prescribed
by a physician or midwife as well.
How to avoid mastitis
Mastitis starts out as a plugged duct and develops into an
infection. In order to avoid your ducts becoming clogged in the first place,
it is a good idea not to constrict your milk ducts with underwire bras or tight
fitting clothing. Try not to sleep on your stomach as this may also lead to a
plugged duct. Avoid supplementing with bottles because this may lead to an
overproduction of breast milk. When a feeding is missed, breasts may become
engorged and ducts can get plugged up. Breast compression or breast massage
before latching is also a helpful tool to avoiding clogged ducts all together.
By: Liz Pickett
Liz is a staff writer for www.nursing-mommy.com. Visit
nursing-mommy.com for tons of information on breast feeding your baby.
About the Author
Liz is a staff writer for www.nursing-mommy.com. Visit
nursing-mommy.com for tons of information on breast
feeding your baby.
Article Source: http://www.simplysearch4it.com/article/20903.html
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