An infection in breast tissue, which is commonly found in nursing women, is called mastitis. Mastitis can also be found in women, who are not giving breastfeed to their newborns after birth. The infection causes pain, swelling, redness, increased temperature of the breast and sometimes fever. Women, who have low immunity, are also at a higher risk of getting the infection.
The infection that is caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus Aureus starts from a crack on the skin. It occurs when the bacteria, often from the baby's mouth, enter a milk duct through a crack in the nipple. This causes an infection and painful inflammation to the breast. The infection can grows and in certain conditions, you may need to contact the medical practitioner to take medicines to cure the infection.
Up to three percent of nursing mothers develop mastitis. It usually happens within the first few weeks after delivery and at the time of weaning. Generally, the infection occurs only in one breast. Engorgement and inadequate drainage of breast milk can contribute to the problem and make the symptoms worse.
So, these are some factors that can increase a woman's risk to get mastitis:
- Irregular breastfeeding, e.g. skipping breastfeeding.
- A tight constricting bra leading to overfilling of breasts, poor drainage and blocked milk ducts.
- Poor attachment to the breast.
- Smoking cigarette.
- Inadequate drainage of breast milk.
- Rapid weaning or stopping breast-feeding suddenly.
- Conditions that lower resistance to infection, including anemia, stress, and diabetes.
- Incorrect positioning of the baby during breast-feeding.
- Objects that press on the breast, e.g. heavy shoulder bags.
- Going too long between breastfeeding sessions.
- Nipple trauma.
- Breast abnormalities, i.e. from breast surgeries.
- Exercising the upper arm too much.
- Past injuries to the breast.
Mastitis causes the following symptoms:
- A reddened area on the breast, which may be tender and warm to touch.
- Pain and/or discomfort in the breast.
- Flu like symptoms may be experienced, including aching joints, fever (38.5C or above) and chills.
- Swelling or lumps with redness on the surface and sometimes itchy.
- Enlargement of one side of breasts and pain.
- Body aches and fatigue which can cause vomiting or nausea.
- Nipples may have pus discharge and sensation changes in nipples.
Sometimes mastitis is unavoidable. Some women are more vulnerable than others, especially those who are breastfeeding for the first time. But however, mastitis can be prevented. A woman can lower her risk for a breast infection by having these good habits:
- Practice careful hygiene: Hand washing, cleaning the nipples, keeping your baby clean.
- Breastfeed equally from both breasts.
- Empty breasts completely to prevent engorgement and blocked ducts.
- Use good breastfeeding techniques to prevent sore, cracked nipples. Ensuring that the baby is suckling properly by positioning the baby correctly.
- Following a breastfeed, the breasts should feel softer and more comfortable, with no hard, tender lumps remaining.
- Have a regular schedule for breast-feeding. Expressing breast milk when you are away from your baby during regular feeding times.
- Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoiding excessive exercise of the upper arms.
- Avoiding restrictive clothing or objects over the breast.
- Seeking effective treatment for conditions such as anemia.
At early sign of mastitis, you do not need to go to medical centre. It is important to start treatment at the first signs of mastitis. You can do the following advices before you seek professional help:
- Apply warm compress to the affected breast. Warm compress can reduce the pain but avoid using ice packs as it can reduce the flow of milk.
- It is important to continue breastfeeding or using a breast pump and emptying the breast that is infected, because it helps in clearing the breasts and as the milk is reduced, the bacteria may not grow. The milk is safe for your baby.
- Gently massage any breast lumps.
- Breastfeed or express the breast until the area is softened and feels more comfortable. Symptoms may get worsen and the milk supply may drop in this breast if the breast is not well drained.
- Drink a lot of water to clear the body of toxins.
- Repeat this process a number of times until the blockage resolves
- Seek medical advice if the symptoms do not improve. Symptoms usually subside in 2 to 3 days after treatment.
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Having baby is a life-changing event. That is the reason http://www.OhMyBaby.com.au was created by Jeffry Pranata. Oh My Baby is dedicated to help new, expecting and "actively trying" parents find the information, supports and reassurance they might need. To receive free newsletter, subscribe from: http://www.OhMyBaby.com.au/Free-Info.html
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