While breastfeeding can be a positive experience for new moms, it can also come with some hurdles along the way. Clogged milk ducts, latching problems and a condition called mastitis are all challenges breastfeeding moms may face. While distressing, there are several effective strategies of how to prevent mastitis.
What is mastitis?
Mastitis, an inflammation of breast tissue that often involves a breast infection, is a common condition many breastfeeding mothers face. Some symptoms of mastitis include warmth, redness, swelling and pain in the breast, along with flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills.
Tips on how to prevent mastitis
Proper breastfeeding technique
One of the most important methods for preventing mastitis is to ensure that your baby is latching correctly. A poor latch can lead to incomplete emptying of the breast. Stagnant milk in the ducts can become a breeding ground for bacteria to build up and cause an infection.
Tips:
- Make sure your baby’s mouth covers a large portion of the areola, not just the nipple.
- Alternate the starting breast with each feeding to ensure both breasts are evenly emptied.
- If you experience pain during breastfeeding, consult a lactation specialist to adjust your technique.
Regular breastfeeding
Frequent breastfeeding or pumping helps to keep the milk flowing and prevents the breasts from becoming engorged. Engorgement can lead to blocked milk ducts, a significant risk factor for developing mastitis.
Tips:
- Feed your baby on demand, ideally every two to three hours.
- If your baby is sleeping longer than usual, consider pumping to relieve breast fullness.
- Avoid skipping feedings, as this can contribute to milk buildup and plugged ducts.
Breast care
Taking care of your breasts is crucial in preventing mastitis. While tenderness or soreness in the first few days is common in breastfeeding, experiencing pain with latching should not continue throughout the entire feeding. Continued pain can be a sign of an improper latch which can cause cracked or blistered nipples which increases the risk of bacteria from your baby’s mouth entering the breasts.
Tips:
- Wash your hands before and after breastfeeding to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria.
- Ensure that a proper latch is achieved with each feeding
- Use leftover milk or nipple ointment to prevent drying of nipple tissue
- Wear a well-fitted and non-restrictive bra to avoid putting too much pressure on your breasts.
- Frequently change out damp or moist nursing pads.
- Massage your breasts gently if you feel any lumps or notice milk not flowing freely during feeding. This can help clear any potential blockages.
“Wearing a tight-fitting bra has a risk of decreasing milk supply,” says Dalina Walker, MSN, RNC, IBCLC, a nurse and certified lactation consultant at The Birthplace at Mary Immaculate Hospital in our Hampton Roads market.
Manage stress and fatigue
Stress and fatigue can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections, including mastitis. It’s essential to take care of your overall well-being during the breastfeeding period.
Tips:
- Ensure you get adequate rest, and don’t hesitate to ask for help with baby care or household chores.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains to support your immune system.
- Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or gentle exercise like walking to manage stress.
What to do if you develop mastitis
While fairly common, your chances of getting mastitis are about 10 percent if you live in the United States, especially within the first three months of your baby’s birth. Often, women develop mastitis because their milk ducts can become clogged or from bacteria entering the milk ducts.
Some more ways you can develop mastitis are:
- Sore or cracked nipples
- Latch problems
- Yeast infections
- Inadequate milk drainage
- Longer stretches between feedings
- Baby sleeping longer at night
- Teething or stuffy nose
Tips:
- If you develop a fever or notice that a part of your breast feels unusually tender or warm, contact your health care provider immediately.
- Early intervention with antibiotics can prevent the infection from worsening.
“Mastitis is a pretty serious infection, so patients should first reach out to their provider for immediate treatment so there is no delay in care,” Dalina says.
How we can help
Preventing mastitis is all about proper breastfeeding practices, good breast care, managing stress and being vigilant about early signs of infection. Reach out to a lactation consultant for breastfeeding support, assistance and education. If you are concerned you are developing mastitis, contact your health care provider. Early intervention can help you have a more comfortable and enjoyable breastfeeding experience.
Learn about the maternity and birthing services as well as the neonatology services we offer at Bon Secours.
