Understanding Breast Health

If you suspect a lump or experience any of the following, whether breastfeeding or not, contact your healthcare professional:

- Unusual nipple discharge
- Severe breast pain affecting your daily life
- Persistent, unexplained breast pain
- Other concerning symptoms like redness, swelling, pain that interferes with nursing, or a persistent breast lump

If breast discomfort is accompanied by other infection-related symptoms (fever, swelling, redness) and you can't see your doctor immediately, consider an assessment in the hospital emergency room. Go to the emergency room if you experience:

- A persistent high fever exceeding 101.5°F (38.6°C)
- Pus drainage from the breast
- Nausea or vomiting preventing medication intake
- Red streaks towards your chest or arm
- Feeling lightheaded, faint, or confused

Self-Care at Home

After seeing a doctor, consider the following for effective healing of breast infection:

• Medication for pain: Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These are safe while breastfeeding. For severe pain, your doctor might prescribe a stronger pain reliever.
• In mild cases of mastitis, antibiotics may not be needed. Finish the prescription if prescribed, even if you feel better in a few days.
• Continue breastfeeding from the affected breast despite discomfort. Regular emptying of the breast helps prevent clogged ducts and engorgement.

If necessary, use a breast pump to empty the breast. Infections won't affect the child since the bacteria likely originated from the baby's mouth. You can pump the affected breast and discard the milk. Use infant formula if needed while breastfeeding from the unaffected side.

Pain relief can be achieved through warm compresses before and after feedings. Warm baths can also help. Use ice packs after feedings for relief if warmth doesn't work. Avoid using ice packs just before nursing, as they can reduce milk production. Consume at least ten glasses of water daily, maintain a well-balanced diet, and add 500 extra calories per day while breastfeeding.

Mastitis is not cancer, but persistent symptoms may require a mammogram or other tests to rule out cancer.

Follow-up

If you have a breast infection, a recheck is usually scheduled within 24-48 hours. Follow these steps:

• Take all antibiotics as prescribed.
• Check your temperature three times a day for the first 48 hours after starting treatment. Watch for fever.
• Contact your doctor if you develop a high fever, vomiting, or increasing redness, swelling, or pain in the breast.
• Follow up with your doctor in one to two weeks to ensure the infection is resolved. If the infection spreads or an abscess forms, you may need IV antibiotics or surgery.

Prevention

Mastitis can sometimes be prevented. Good habits to avoid it include:

• Equally breastfeed from both breasts.
• Completely empty breasts to prevent engorgement and blocked ducts.
• Use proper breastfeeding techniques to avoid sore, cracked nipples.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash hands, clean nipples, and keep your baby clean.