Mastitis and breastfeeding?

Question

I am breastfeeding my 8 week old and I have got mastitis. Is it still safe to breastfeed him on that breast? Any ideas on how to overcome this. I have got antibiotics from the doctor.

Answer 1

I read that putting Savoy cabbage in your bra will help draw it out.  

Answer 2

Do it, do it do it!

Your question made me wince reading it. I got mastitis three times with my three kids. It truly is sent from h**l!

The second two times i took the baby into bed and let them feed and feed and feed, (well suck and suck and suck!) as much as I could. I even fed them lying so they were 'upside down' so their chin would massage the red bit. Hurt like billy-oh but did the trick.

The first time I was put off by the pain and tried to avoid it. And ended up with infective mastitis... Trust me - deal with it now.

Keep it flowing by whatever means and you'll be over it all the quicker.

You have all my sympathy! xx

Answer 3

to relieve mastitis i was told by gp to continue feeding as normal, also try hot shower or expressing whilst in the bath, could also try an electric breast pump your hv may be able to get a loan pump for you. I tried manual pump but it hurt so much. Savoy cabbage leaves also help not very attractive tho and stinks. It's tough going but I just thought of my little 1 whilst feeding and the benefits she was recieving.

keep strong & good luck  

Answer 4

It's painful but it is best to grin and bear it.  It helps clear the ducts.   I also found brushing my breast with a paddle hairbrush helped clear the ducts.  Also a warm flannel is soothing.  Try everything!!

Answer 5

It is safe to do it, but it bloody hurts! Continuing breastfeeding will actually help to unclog the blockage and make you better. You need to keep feeding and put some cold cabbage leaves on your b*****s to ease the pain. Good luck!

Answer 6

My Sil suffered terribly three times with mastitis in the first 3 months after having her first baby. Her Doctor recommended to keep feeding from that breast, massage the duct (though that hurts too) and feeding your baby straight after you have had a nice hot shower can help get the blockage moving. I used this technique a few times and narrowly missed getting mastitis myself. I know it is hard and painful but the baby is the best at getting all the milk out of your b*****s and moving the block.