What happens if mastitis goes untreated

Obviously, strategies to prevent the condition need to be in place. Gentle breast massage will keep the milk ducts from becoming plugged. While in the shower or when moisturizing, the new mother can lightly effleurage around her breasts six times, lightly knead the base of the breasts and press on any areas that might feel tender. There also are some effective acupuncture points that might help reduce the discomfort. She can draw an imaginary line from the nipples vertically upward, just beneath both clavicles.

These tender spots are Stomach Press both points for a count of , repeating times. From there, she can make an imaginary line about 3 inches down to the beginning of each breast. These are the Stomach 16 acupuncture points. Treat them as you would Stomach In the middle of the sternum, your client can find Conception Vessel This point is going to feel tender to the touch. She should start the treatment by pressing gently and gradually increasing her pressure. Other natural treatments to treat plugged ducts or mastitis can be used once symptoms appear, as a way to prevent the condition from worsening.

For those women who chose to avoid antibiotics, these techniques might be their best form of defense and care. When the breast starts to feel tender, apply moist heat to the area. This will help dilate the milk ducts and prevent them from clogging. She can stand in the shower, facing away from the shower head, and let the water cascade over her shoulder s.

Anyone who has ever taken my workshop knows what to do with potatoes I am going to keep the rest of you guessing. For breast tenderness, grate a raw potato and apply a cold poultice a few times each day to the sore spot. Rupture the veins by rolling over the leaves with a rolling pin and wear them until they become room temperature, and then change them.

Some women report a decrease in milk supply from using the leaves, so the new mom needs to be attentive to that change. Apply wet or dry heat to the affected breast just before breastfeeding or expressing, or simply to ease the pain.

A warm flannel can work well, or you could take a warm shower. Go braless and wear loose-fitting clothing to lessen the pressure on your breasts. Early treatment of mastitis is important. If you are considering taking a painkiller, always ask your doctor or health visitor first which pain relief medication may be safe to take while breastfeeding.

In very rare cases, mastitis can develop into sepsis, which needs urgent medical attention. Yes you can. In fact, sticking to your regular feeding routine is usually the best thing you can do if you have mastitis. Keeping up a steady flow of milk helps to clear any blockages in the milk ducts. Rarely, you might find that the mastitis makes feeding from the affected breast too painful. After relieving some of the pressure in this way, you might be able to finish nursing on the affected breast without too much discomfort.

Here are some things you might like to try to help prevent mastitis in the first place:. Varying your breastfeeding positions may help completely empty each breast and help prevent a blockage. Feed your little one whenever he or she is hungry , and try not to leave too much time between feeds.

Breastfeeding or expressing with mastitis can be difficult and frustrating. Try to be patient and gentle with yourself during this time. As long as you recognise the early signs of mastitis and see your doctor as soon as possible if necessary, it won't be long until you're back to enjoying this bonding time with your baby. How we wrote this article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the National Health Service NHS.

The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment. Mastitis Symptoms and Treatment Updated April 30, What Is Mastitis?

Mastitis Symptoms You may be wondering how to tell the difference between mastitis and the normal tenderness you might feel when you first start breastfeeding.

Mastitis usually clears up quickly, as long as you recognise the early signs and start treatment straight away. Other symptoms may include: Breast pain Swelling A tender, red, wedge-shaped area on the breast A breast that is warm or hot to the touch A burning sensation while breastfeeding Discharge from the nipple Fever Chills Nausea or vomiting Mastitis usually affects only one breast at a time. What causes mastitis? You may be at higher risk of developing mastitis if you: Have sore or cracked nipples Use only one position to breastfeed using different positions helps make sure you completely drain the breast Wear a tight-fitting bra or put pressure on your breasts which can restrict milk flow.

How is mastitis diagnosed? Can mastitis be prevented or avoided? Below are some basic breastfeeding techniques to lower your risk of developing mastitis.

Your baby should latch onto the nipple with his or her mouth open wide. Allow your baby to empty one breast before switching to the other breast. If you need to stop a feeding, break the suction using your finger. Air your nipples out when possible. Tell your doctor or lactation consultant if you have nipple pain during nursing. Mastitis treatment Sometimes breast infections go away on their own. If you notice you have symptoms of mastitis, try the following: Breastfeed on the affected side every 2 hours, or more frequently.

This will keep your milk flowing and prevent your breast from getting too full of milk. Massage the area. Start behind where it is sore and use a circular motion toward the nipple.

Apply warm, moist compresses to the sore area. Wear a supportive, well-fitting bra. Call your doctor right away if you notice any of the following symptoms: Infection in both breasts Pus or blood in your breastmilk Red streaks near the affected area Symptoms came on severely and suddenly A painful lump that might be an abscess To prevent these types of complications, call your doctor when you first notice symptoms of mastitis.

Questions to ask your doctor What is the likely cause of my mastitis? Is my milk still safe for the baby? Do I need antibiotics? How should I take them? Are they safe for the baby? Do you have a lactation consultant on staff? Where can I find breastfeeding support?

Is there anything else I should do to help prevent mastitis?