15/12/2025
Mastitis and Christmas:
For anyone currently breastfeeding/chestfeeding – did you know that you are more likely to get mastitis during the holiday period?
Reasons why:
Change in routine – if your normal routine is disrupted (whether by travel or by well meaning relatives who want extended baby cuddles) and your feed time is delayed, you may become more engorged which can lead to blocked ducts and mastitis
Stress and less rest – did you know that stress can affect you milk flow and how easy it is to feed
How to prevent it:
-Feed baby on cue
-If you can’t feed on cue and you are becoming engorged, express or pump enough that the breast is comfortable again
-Word up relatives when feeding times are, so they know when to pause the cuddles
-Stay well hydrated
-Rest as often as you can (we know, we know – but even simple tricks like feeding lying down can help!)
Know the symptoms and seek help early – if you have any of the combination of the following, see your GP:
-Breast tenderness
-A red, hot, swollen, and/or hardened area on the breast
-Fever, chills, and body aches
How can physio help?
-We provide therapeutic ultrasound which can reduce the inflammation and blocked ducts to relive the pain
-We teach gentle massage techniques to help reduce swelling and pain
Phone: 8738 4308
Email: admin@southeastpelvic.com.au
