SportsMed Mastitis Important Information Mastitis refers to inflammation of the Factors that predispose women to blocked ducts, and may breast. It can be non-infective, caused lead to mastitits are: by a blocked milk duct, or infective Poor drainage of the breast, caused caused by a bacterial infection. by poor attachment at the breast or limited time at the breast Non-infective mastitis may develop into infected mastitis through Engorgement of the breast due to a cracked nipple, or just because your body is run down and your a missed feed or delayed feed immunity is lowered when you are tired. A tight or ill-fitting bra, or underwire digging in Symptoms Holding the breast too Breast tightly during feeding Red, hot, swollen firm patch on the breast Trauma such as a kick from a toddler Tender or painful to touch or pressure from a seatbelt The skin may appear tight and shiny and pink Nipple trauma caused by poor attachment Body Tired Headaches Nausea Flu-like symptoms and/or feverish Ask at reception or call today on 08 9382 9600 sportsmedsubiaco.com.au SportsMed Mastitis Mastitis refers to inflammation of the breast. Preventing mastitis Your GP may not be able to distinguish between infective and non-infective mastitis, but will usually To help prevent mastitis you should: commence you on a course of antibiotics Always wash hands thoroughly before touching the breast You should also Ensure baby is positioned and Continue to breastfeed whilst on antibiotics. attached correctly to the breast Your baby may experience a few runny nappies, Avoid long periods between breastfeeds but it will not cause them any harm Wear loose comfortable clothes and Ultrasound treatment can commence correctly fitted bras without underwire after 24 hours antibiotic use It is important to treat blocked milk ducts Rest and adequate fluid intake so they do not progress to mastitis. Analgesia (such as Paracetamol) Options for treating blocked ducts include: for pain relief as required Keep breastfeeding. Offer the affected If you wish to stop breastfeeding, it is important to breast first to maximise drainage continue to feed until the mastitis has cleared. Apply a heat pack or hot shower prior to breastfeeding, and follow with an ice pack after Rapid weaning may lead to a breast abscess. feeding and between feeds for comfort Ultrasound for blocked ducts & mastitis Gentle self massage towards the nipple may help to release the blockage. The pressure St John of God Physiotherapy offers ultrasound should be light to avoid causing further bruising therapy for blocked ducts and mastitis. Ultrasound and swelling around the blocked duct therapy works by sending sound waves into the tissues to reduce swelling and help to reduce Change in feeding position. A good tip is to point the baby’s chin towards the blocked duct the blockage to resume normal milk flow. Frequent drainage of the breast through It is not painful and will help to breastfeeding or expressing resolve the blockage quickly. If the blockage does not clear within 8-12 hours Ask at reception or call today on 08 9382 9600 ultrasound treatment can be useful. If you start to feel any flu-like symptoms see your Doctor immediately. sportsmedsubiaco.com.au.