Ugh- I've got mastitis

[bethann]

It started yesterday morning and by the evening I was a wreck.  I started antibiotics in the pm and the flu symptoms have since subsided. 

I was wondering how long after I start antibiotics will the breast pain go away?  It's been over 24 hours and the breast is still red and hot- also the ducts are really blocked.  I've been doing moist hot compresses and hot showers and baths.  I have also been keeping it empty with either pumping or feeding. 

I had this with abigail, but I remember it going away much quicker.   

[zed]

Lots of (((((hugs)))))

I'm sorry but I have never had clogged ducts to the point where I needed drugs.  I can't help you but wanted to send you some suport anyway.

[benandmichelle]

you need to be having hot showers to help the milk out and COLD compresses to take the swelling down. Hot compresses will make more blood come to the inflamed area and it is not what you really want happening E.g Try large wet cabbagge leaves in a tea towel or quark or thick yogurt between 2 paper towels. (yes it really works)

[lisi's mum]

ouch, poor you. Glad you got the antibiotics so quick. If the antibiotics haven't kicked in in a couple days, go back to the dr.

The cabbage leaves and / or quark in your bra might smell a bit, but work wonders!

[waffler]

What about massaging the ducts? Do it in the shower, and use your soapy hands to locate the duct and gently massage.

[Samuel's mum]

You poor thing.

Yes, you need to be using warmth for massage and unblocking ducts but then moving to cold compresses inbetween.

Antibiotics usually take at least 24-36 hours to have an effect.

This leaflet is useful:
http://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/pdfs/BFN_Mastitis.pdf

and look at this from the ABM site:

As soon as you suspect a problem, the most effective step you can take is to feed your baby from the affected breast first as often as possible. The milk will not harm your baby. Warm flannels, or a warm shower or bath, prior to feeds will encourage the milk to flow and ease pain. As your baby feeds, gently massage the affected part of the breast towards the nipple in small circular motions to assist the milk flow. It may help to express a little milk before your baby feeds to stimulate the flow and make it easier for your baby to "latch on" if your breast is engorged. Varying feeding positions ensures the milk ducts are fully drained - try the "football" or "rugby ball" hold, or try feeding lying down. ake sure your baby is correctly latched to the breast, as poor attachment results in "nipple-feeding" and worsens the problem.

Cold compresses between feeds ease pain and reduce inflammation - try a bag of frozen peas well wrapped in a tea towel. Proprietary gel-filled packs are available which can be warmed or chilled as required. Arm rotating (as if doing back stroke) helps drain excess fluid from breast tissue and improves circulation, thus relieving discomfort. Rest as much as you can; if possible take your baby to bed with you and feed frequently. The more you feed, the quicker you will begin to feel better. You can take Paracetamol to bring down your temperature and ease pain, but DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN - it is unsuitable for breastfeeding mothers. Natural remedies for mastitis are available, but as they are always prescribed specifically for the mum in question, consult a qualified herbalist or homoeopath rather than self-prescribing. Homoeopathic remedies and some herbal remedies are completely safe to use when breastfeeding, but do seek professional advice.

VERY important:
You are very vulnerable to thrush because of taking the antibiotics. You must get some 'good bacteria' into your system - eating live yoghurt, drinking yoghurt drinks, consider getting acidophilus capsules from the health store.

Hope you feel better soon.

[bethann]

Thank-you for the advice.

It's still sore this morning, but it is improving.  I seem to be having a hard time draining the blocked area. I'll try the cabbage leaves, and I'll certainly take some acidophilus (I've had thrush and never want to have that again!)

[mumto5cuddlebugs]

((((((((((((((((hugs))))))))))))))))))))
Poor you, i had mastitus when i had my youngest. I don't know where you are but i found some round plastic pads filled with gel that you put in the freezer, i bought them from Boots the chemist(uk) but i cant remember the name. They were like a godsend and nicer than cabbage! You could also warm them to do a hot compress.
I ate lots of chocolate éclair sweets because they are very chewy ad gave me something to grit my teeth on through the pain of feeding! (That was my excuse anyway _
The antiobiotics should help within 48 hours. I hope you feel better soon 

[maggie2]

Bethann - just saw this - you poor thing  Happy to hear that you're starting to feel better.  I had mastitis a few weeks ago, and started to feel better within 2 days of starting antibiotics.  I also was taking probiotics to try and avoid thrush, as I don't want to experience that!!!

Hope you feel better soon

Maggie

[Erin (redstarfalling)]

{{{{{hugs}}}}} feel better soon!