Learn more about what mastitis is, and our top three tips for ways you can help to prevent it or lessen symptoms.
Mastitis is more common than most might think. In fact, 1 in 5 Australian women will develop mastitis in the first six months following pregnancy, most commonly occurring in the first 2-3 weeks post partum.
In this guide, we’re going to introduce you to everything you need to know about blocked ducts & mastitis and our top three tips for ways you can help to prevent it or lessen symptoms.
What is Mastitis?
Before we dive into the advice, let’s make sure we know what exactly mastitis is.
Blocked ducts refers to an obstruction of milk flow through the milk ducts to the nipple. Mastitis is an inflammatory condition that occurs in the breast tissue as a result of over supply syndrome/milk engorgement or obstruction of ductal tissue (blocked ducts). Mastitis can be infective or non-infective. When mastitis is infective antibiotics can control the bacterial infection but do not treat the underlying cause.
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Symptoms of a blocked duct vs mastitis
A blockage in the milk ducts tends to occur first these symptoms may present as;
- Swelling and warmth in the breast
- Redness and shiny skin over the affected area
- Breast pain or tenderness in the breast
- Pain when breastfeeding
- A firm lump or area in the breast
Symptoms of a blocked duct can quickly progress into mastitis; these symptoms will present like a blocked duct but may also include:
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, and body aches
- Fatigue or feeling generally unwell
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit
Causes of blocked ducts & Mastitis
- Use of breast pumps
- Flow and volume of milk is disproportionate to infant drainage
- Engorgement
- Tight clothing or a poorly fitting bra that puts pressure on the breast tissue
- Trauma to the breast
- Individual anatomy – genetics
- Stress or fatigue
Our Top Three Tips for preventing and treating blocked ducts & mastitis
The specific treatment for mastitis will vary depending on the severity of the case. If flu like symptoms are preset we always recommend you see your GP urgently.
Tip 1 – Get to know your breasts
Know what they look like, what they feel like (some women have naturally “lumpier” breasts than others), the natural colouring of your skin. Look at them in a mirror and touch them on a daily basis in those early weeks of breastfeeding. This way, you get to know the individuality of your breast tissue and can identify when something is wrong early!
Tip 2 – Continue Feeding Regularly
To prevent the development of oversupply and engorgement (which can lead to mastitis), learning to feed baby fully at each feed, ideally feeding from both breasts in one feed, rather than snack feeding little and often can be helpful. Regular full feeds will help your milk supply to regulate, helping your breasts figure out how much milk your baby needs each feed.
A lactation consultant can do wonders here if you are encountering breastfeeding issues, such as a problem with supply or the latch of your baby onto your breast. You can also check out the Australian Breastfeeding Association for further advice on maintaining milk flow.
Tip 3 – Prioritise Rest & Sleep
In the early post-partum weeks there is much going on with your new, changing and healing body. Prioritising sleep (where baby allows) and non sleep deep rest (spending quiet time lay down – without overloading your brain – yes that means no online shopping, no researching the best baby toys, no scrolling social media) can be extremely helpful in allowing your body to restore and recover, including the regulation of your milk supply.
If you suspect you have mastitis, it is important to reach out to a healthcare provider, including your women’s health physiotherapist, lactation consultant, Obstetrician or General Practitioner. They can assist you in getting a diagnosis and starting treatment. When left untreated, mastitis can lead to some serious complications, such as sepsis, making it an issue you should prioritise.
Get Help At Sydney Pelvic Clinic
Do you need help dealing with mastitis-related issues? If so, our team here at Sydney Pelvic Clinic are trained in managing these conditions and are here to help! In most cases of blocked ducts, symptoms are completely resolved in fewer than four short sessions.
Click here to book a consultation with a qualified member of our team today.
