What is mastitis?

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-Mastitis is an infection of the breast.
-Symptoms include red, hot, tender sections of the breast, a fever, chills, aching and fatigue.
-Mastitis more commonly occurs in the first several weeks following the birth. Although less common it can occur even after 6 months post-birth.
-The most common time of occurrance is 6 weeks post-birth.
-Factors associated with mastitis are an unresolved blocked milk duct, engorgement, cracked nipples, stress, fatigue and also a discontinuing of feeding or decrease in number of feeds.
-If you should develop any or all of the above mentioned it is advised to seek the advise of you health practitioner. Mastitis is generally treated with antibiotics.
-It is important to note that if you do have mastitis not to stop breastfeeding. Make sure that you use warm/hot packs and massage to affected area during feeding, cold packs or chilled cabbage leaves to breasts between feeds to reduce swelling, rest between feeds and increase fluids. If taking antibiotics make sure you complete the course even if feeling well.

Reference: Nicols F.H & Zwelling E. 1997 "Maternal-Newborn Nursing", W.B. Saunders Company, USA.