Is It Okay To Keep Breastfeeding With Mastitis?

Breastfeeding is a beautiful experience, but many mothers experience roadblocks in their journeys. A common one is mastitis. If you’re dealing with mastitis, you might be wondering if it’s okay to keep breastfeeding. The short answer is yes, but there’s more to the story. Let’s break it down.

What Is Mastitis?

Mastitis is a condition characterized by inflamed breast tissue that usually results in pain, swelling, warmth, and redness. Some mothers also experience fever or flu-like symptoms.

The condition typically occurs when a milk duct gets blocked or milk stays in the breast too long and becomes infected. It’s an uncomfortable and frustrating situation, particularly when all you want is to nourish your baby.

Why You Should Keep Breastfeeding With Mastitis

So is it okay to keep breastfeeding with mastitis? The answer is yes—in fact, you should. Below are the main reasons why.

Keeps Milk Flowing

Mastitis often develops due to milk stagnation, so continuing to breastfeed helps keep the milk moving. Emptying the affected breast prevents further blockages and reduces pressure.

Is Safe for Your Baby

The milk from a breast with mastitis is perfectly safe for your baby. The only caveat is that the taste may change slightly, but this shouldn’t harm your little one in any way.

Promotes Quicker Recovery

Frequent breastfeeding clears the blocked ducts, speeding up recovery. Plus, it reduces your discomfort since the breast won’t stay engorged.

Tips for Breastfeeding With Mastitis

While it’s safe to nurse through mastitis, here are a few tips to make it a more comfortable and effective process.

1. Start With the Affected Breast

Position your baby to latch onto the affected breast first. This is because they usually suck more strongly at the start of a feeding. This can help remove milk from the blocked duct.

2. Ensure a Good Latch

If your baby can latch properly, they’ll more efficiently drain the breast. If you’re struggling with this, consider working with a lactation consultant. They can use several types of educational breastfeeding models to demonstrate what a good latch looks like and how to achieve it.

3. Massage While Feeding

Gentle massage on the affected area while your baby feeds can loosen the blockage. Use circular motions and massage toward the nipple.

4. Try Different Positions

Experimenting with breastfeeding positions, such as the football hold or side-lying position, might target different milk ducts during feeding.

5. Stay Hydrated and Rest

Your body needs extra energy and hydration to fight inflammation and recover. Drink water throughout the day and rest whenever possible.

6. Try Temperature Therapy

Apply a warm compress before feeding to stimulate milk flow and a cold pack after feeding to control swelling and pain.

What If It Becomes Too Painful?

If nursing from the affected breast feels unbearable despite your efforts, don’t panic. Reach out to your doctor right away. You might need antibiotics. In the meantime, if you can’t continue breastfeeding, then you can switch to formula until the infection clears.

Be patient, follow through on home therapies, consult your doctor, and know that you’re not alone in your condition. Mastitis is incredibly common, and you will get through it eventually.