Anyone had a breast abscess????

[libg]

My friend had her 1st baby about 4 weeks ago, she got mastitis 2 weeks in, and was in hospital for 2 nights as she wasn't clearing up. It pretty much went away, but she was back in hospital last night with a suspected abscess. The Dr.s are talking about inserting a drain and that she will probably have to give up BF as milk will drain out of the hole for the drain for ages. She really would rather not give up.

Anyone had experience with this so I can give her some info on other peoples experiences?

[Samuel's mum]

Your poor friend. What a rough start. Do urge her to speak with a lactation consultant. There might be more options than she realizes:
http://www.kellymom.com/bf/concerns/mom/breast-abscess.html
Even with some milk leaking breastfeeding can often continue (and should continue to prevent further complications). Breastmilk contains antibacterial properties so the leakage is not the issue it might otherwise be. It's only tricky if the site is very near the areola.
It's common for an abscess to be aspirated with a needle so if they are talking about a drain they might be able to do that instead with little effect in the long term.

[libg]

Thanks so much for that link!