THE FIVE MINUTE MASTITIS GUIDE

What it is

Why it happens

How to deal with it

WHAT?

Mastitis occurs in a breastfeeding mother when one or more milk ducts become clogged. Symptoms include pain, heat, and redness at the site, as well as exhaustion and flu or fever-like symptoms.

WHEN YOU GOOGLE MASTITIS You get a lot of this…

COWS ARE MAMMALS TOO! Mastitis is not just a people problem…

MASTITIS IS NO LAUGHING MATTER…- 10% of breastfeeding

moms affected- Could be up to 33%- Usually within first 3

months of childbirth- Can occur up to 2 yrs

after childbirth

OUCH!

WHY? Why does Mastitis happen?

TWO TYPES OF MASTITIS

Non-infectious (Milk Stasis)

Infectious (Bacterial)

NON-INFECTIOUS MASTITIS(MILK STASIS)

Thought to occur when the breast is not adequately drained

Plugged ducts Engorgement Constriction of breast tissue Infrequent feedings

If left untreated, may lead to infectious mastitis

INFECTIOUS MASTITIS(BACTERIAL) Staphylococcus areus is the bacteria

most commonly associated with mastitis

Streptococcus – rarely involved

INFECTIOUS MASTITISRISKS INCLUDE: Breast trauma Eczema Cesarean birth Antibiotic administration during labor, birth or

early postpartum Multiple gestations

COMPLICATIONS Untreated mastitis can lead to an abscess of

the breast.

HOW TO DEAL WITH MASTITISMEDICAL TREATMENT Seek medical care right away Ultrasound to diagnose Antibiotics Analgesics (Tylenol) Surgery Drainage Continued nursing Pumping, if necessary

HOW TO DEAL WITH MASTITISSELF-CARE TIPS Rest! Frequent, regular nursing Feed on both sides Empty the breasts Loose clothing/bra Warm wet compresses and gentle massage Eat well Complete medications, as prescribed

THANK YOU…

For more information please contact Loving Support at 1.800.455.4942