Breastfeeding can be one of the most rewarding experiences for new mums, but it’s not without its challenges. Mastitis and blocked ducts are common issues that many breastfeeding mothers face, and can turn an otherwise joyful experience into a painful ordeal. Understanding how to manage these conditions can help you navigate breastfeeding with greater ease and comfort.
What Is Mastitis?
Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that often occurs around the milk ducts, causing pain, swelling, and redness. It’s usually a result of milk stasis, where milk isn’t adequately drained from the breast, leading to inflammation and sometimes infection.
Marnie Poiner, a women’s health physiotherapist, explains that mastitis is often misunderstood. "Mastitis is inflammation AROUND the ducts, not inside. It causes pressure on the duct and prevents milk from leaving the breast, causing milk stasis and potential infection," she says.
While mastitis can be painful, it doesn’t always require antibiotics. In fact, Marnie notes that antibiotics are often prescribed without addressing the underlying issue of poor milk flow. Instead, managing inflammation and improving milk drainage are key to resolving mastitis.
Dealing with Blocked Ducts
Blocked ducts are another common issue that can lead to mastitis if not managed properly. A blocked duct occurs when milk flow is obstructed, leading to a build-up of milk in the breast. This can cause a hard, tender lump and discomfort.
To prevent and manage blocked ducts, Marnie recommends keeping up with your normal feeding or pumping schedule to ensure milk is regularly emptied from the breast. Gentle, light massage towards the armpit can also help relieve the blockage, depending on which part of the breast is affected. “Treat the breast tissue very gently,” she advises.
Read more about how to manage blocked ducts here.
When to Seek Help
If you’re struggling to manage mastitis or blocked ducts on your own, it’s important to seek help from a qualified professional. Marnie suggests seeing a physio who specialises in women's health for personalised advice and treatment, including ultrasound therapy to reduce inflammation and improve milk flow.
“Seeking a physio or other allied health professional who specialises in the lactating breast can really help manage your breast tissue as your milk stabilises,” Marnie advises. It’s essential not to wait too long to get help if you’re experiencing pain or persistent issues with milk flow.
Practical Tips for Managing Mastitis and Blocked Ducts
In addition to professional help, there are practical steps you can take at home to manage mastitis and blocked ducts:
- Continue breastfeeding or pumping: Keeping milk flowing is crucial. Don’t stop breastfeeding, even if it’s uncomfortable.
- Apply heat before feeding: A warm compress can help open the ducts and promote milk flow before nursing.
- Massage gently: Use light, circular motions to massage the breast towards the nipple, avoiding any rough or forceful movements.
- Rest and hydrate: Rest is essential for healing, and staying hydrated supports milk production and overall recovery.
Mastitis and blocked ducts can be challenging, but with the right approach, they can be managed effectively. Remember to treat your body gently, seek help when needed, and prioritise your well-being. Breastfeeding is a journey, and it’s okay to ask for support along the way. By understanding how to manage these common issues, you can make your breastfeeding experience more comfortable and enjoyable for both you and your baby.
Marnie Poiner is a women's health physiotherapist, sexologist, new mum, and all-around pelvic health expert. If you're based in Brisbane, you can visit Marnie at The Healthy Peach Physio at the Grange.
Read more about Marnie's experience and motherhood journey here.
