Decrease in supply after Mastitis

[Poki Mom]

I had mastitis during my fourth week of nursing, and have just had it again a couple of weeks ago at 5 months. The first time, I worried about my milk supply, but it seemed to be okay (I have a very chunky little monkey). This time, the breast that had the infection is significantly smaller and is not producing as much milk. I have been nursing on that side first and trying to pump to build back up the supply (or keep it from getting worse). Has anyone had an experience like this? Are there any suggestions for how I can build up my supply?

[15milner]

By the 5th month, you are into the territory that you are more in the supply/demand of breastfeeding, rather than 'its always there' is the best way i can describe it.  So its less likely to be a case of low supply, just your breasts 'knowing' what and when they are needed.

Keep feeding, drink enough, rest if you can (at least stop and put your feet up!)  and if you are concerned about supply for a while, feed a little more frequently if you can to stimulate the supply.

alex

[Samuel's mum]

Mastitis can sometimes cause a supply dip because the breasts mistaken the swelling for engorgement and start to send stop making milk signals.

As Alex says keep feeding, rest and keep up fluids intake - that side first makes sense. You could also pump directly after a feed (not much will come out at all) to send signals to increase milk production. If you are really worried you could consider taking a galactalogue like fenugreek but I wouldn't go down that road yet.