Mastitis is a painful condition that affects up to 1 in 5 women during their breastfeeding journey.
What is mastitis or blocked ducts?
Mastitis or blocked ducts is an inflammatory reaction that occurs within your breast tissue that may or may not be associated with infection. This typical occurs due to a “blockage” of the ducts that the milk travels in causing the breast tissue to become inflamed. If left untreated this can progress to inflammatory mastitis and potentially more serious conditions such as abscesses. Early assessment and management is crucial.
What are some of the symptoms?
- Tenderness
- Redness
- Heat
- Swelling
- Hardness or a firm lump
- Flu-like symptoms, general body aches and fevers
What can cause mastitis?
Some of the reasons can include:
- A sudden change in feeding patterns which causes the breasts to fill – such as skipping feeds, erratic feeds, longer time between feeds
- Poor latch from baby causing ineffective drainage of the breast
- Underwire, or tight bras causing compression on the breasts (the milk ducts are delicate)
- Nipple damage
- Lowered immune status
What to do if you have mastitis?
- Rest is the most important factor as it helps your body heal
- Keep feeding your baby, this is important to drain the breast. Avoid skipping or delayed feeds
- Cold compress
- Taking Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) such as Nurofen to help control inflammation and reduce pain
- Avoid underwire or tight bras and hard massage
- Book an appointment to see a physiotherapist
How can a physiotherapist help with mastitis?
- Use therapeutic ultrasound which provides a thermal energy to the area which helps reduce inflammation and pain, while also improving circulation and lymphatic drainage to the area. We recommend this is consecutive daily treatments (as possible) for 1-3 sessions until symptoms have resolved
- Teach you self-management strategies of lymphatic drainage (which can otherwise be called “Boob Yoga”)
- Assess breast feeding positions and provide strategies to improve feeding and reduce body aches and pains
- Can help with advice on managing white spot or milk blebs
- Referral to a lactation consultant to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to mastitis such as issues with nipple trauma, issues with latching, tongue ties
- Referral onto your GP for a diagnostic ultrasound if needed
If you are experiencing mastitis symptoms, please reach out to us on (02) 9191 1507 and you will be prioritised and found an appointment as soon as possible.
Written by Sarah Kammoun
