Mastitis involves inflammation of the breast, often due to swelling that narrows the milk ducts rather than blocking them. Common symptoms include breast redness, pain, and swelling.
Effective Treatment Strategies
If you’re dealing with mastitis, a well-fitting supportive bra can help manage swelling and prevent neck and back pain. Gentle massage or light sweeping of the skin can reduce swelling, but avoid deep massage or squeezing, as these can worsen the inflammation.
At Pelvic Path Physical Therapy, located in the San Francisco Bay Area, we emphasize that it’s safe to continue breastfeeding, even if you have mastitis or are taking antibiotics. Try to breastfeed directly rather than pumping or using a nipple shield. Feed your baby on demand, and don’t aim to “empty” your breasts. Start on the healthy breast until things improve.
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen (800 mg every 8 hours) and pain relievers like Tylenol (1,000 mg every 8 hours) can help reduce pain and inflammation, as recommended by the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM). Cold compresses or ice packs can also provide relief.
Most mastitis symptoms resolve with conservative care and support. Antibiotics are usually unnecessary unless you have systemic signs like fever. If you don’t feel better within 24 hours, contact your healthcare provider.
Preventing Mastitis and Other Complications
To prevent mastitis, avoid pumping and using nipple shields whenever possible, as both can cause breast and nipple injuries. Feed directly at the breast or hand express milk as needed. Over-pumping to store milk can increase the risk of mastitis. Consulting a lactation consultant can help manage milk production.
According to ABM (Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine), taking sunflower or soy lecithin (5–10g daily) can reduce duct inflammation and emulsify milk. Women with a history of anxiety and depression are more likely to experience mastitis, so seek help from medical providers or mental health professionals if you experience these symptoms.
If you’re prescribed antibiotics for mastitis, consider your gut health. Eating probiotics like kimchi and yogurt, along with prebiotic-rich foods like leafy greens, can support a healthy gut. Just make sure to take probiotics and antibiotics at least an hour apart.
Conclusion
With the right care and support, managing and preventing mastitis can help ensure a more comfortable and successful breastfeeding journey. At Pelvic Path Physicalf Therapy in the Marin County, we are here to support you through every step of your breastfeeding experience. If you’re interested in getting nutritional coaching with Dr. Nicole Scheel for breastfeeding or learning how to perform gentle breast massage for mastitis, feel free to give us a call for more information.
References
Mitchell KB, Johnson HM, Rodríguez JM, et al. Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Clinical Protocol #36: The Mastitis Spectrum, Revised 2022 [published correction appears in Breastfeed Med. 2022 Nov;17(11):977-978. doi: 10.1089/bfm.2022.29207.kbm.correx]. Breastfeed Med. 2022;17(5):360-376. doi:10.1089/bfm.2022.29207.kbm
