12/17/2024
Sharing my colleagues fabulous advice! Jennifer Rothrock is a fabulous IBCLC in Jacksonville Florida!
Did you know if you’re dealing with a clogged duct or mastitis, you should continue breastfeeding?! 💯
Mastitis is the inflammation of some or all of the breast tissue in one or both breasts. Often caused by oversupply, unresolved clogs, poor milk removal, poorly fitting pump flanges, or other issues.
If you have mastitis, you should...
đź’ś Continue breastfeeding or pumping as normal
đź’ś Gentle breast massage before pumping or feeding can help reduce swelling, allowing the milk to flow more freely. (I mean VERY gentle!)
đź’ś Cold packs on your breasts for 5-10 minutes every 30 minutes to an hour will also help with swelling and inflammation. (especially after nursing/pumping)
đź’ś OTC anti-inflammatory medications*
💜 If rest, ice, OTC anti-inflammatory medications aren’t working after 24-48 hours, you may need oral antibiotics*
đź’ś Support your microbiome, consider a probiotic
A few things that are no longer recommended are heat, extra pumping/nursing, vigorous massage, and pumping & dumping. You’re milk isn’t infected and is still good to feed to baby!
Mastitis may not be a bacterial infection initially, but if it is left untreated, it can develop into one and may require antibiotics. If your symptoms aren't improving after 24-48h of care (rest, ice, OTC, etc), then contact your doctor!
Did you experience a clogged duct or mastitis? What worked for you?
