Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast most often
occurring while a mother is breastfeeding.
It is caused by blocked milk ducts and is relatively common. Mastitis usually happens when bacteria enter
the breast through the nipple. This can happen
when a nursing mother has a cracked or sore nipple. Another cause could be from engorgement which
happens when the new milk comes in or when there is a long period between
nursing and not enough milk is expressed from the breast.
Symptoms may include breast enlargement on one side only,
breast lump, breast pain, fever and flu like symptoms including nausea and
vomiting, itching, nipple discharge, swelling, tenderness, redness, and warmth
in breast tissue, tender or enlarged lymph nodes in armpit on same side.
To help avoid mastitis, make sure the baby is latched on
properly when nursing, to empty the breast completely and avoid cracked
nipples. Get plenty of rest and drink
lots of fluids. Warm or cold packs on
the painful breast, helps bring relief.
Place a warm wet washcloth over the affected breast for about 15
minutes. This increases the milk flow. Breastfeeding usually helps to clear up
infection, and nursing will not hurt the baby.
For herbal help we turn to Dr. Christopher’s Glandular Formula: three parts mullein to one part lobelia. Make a tea of this and use as a fomentation
on the breast at night and use the oil or ointment during the day. The tea can be drunk, 1 cup three times a
day. Also one would want to use herbs to
fight infection: Echinacea and golden
seal, the lymphatic formula, garlic, myrrh, etc. The herbs should be taken
every hour or two to help get rid of the infection.
Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy diet of fresh fruits
and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds.
Nursing is always the best thing for a new baby and its mother. It is a time to bond and relax and enjoy a
newborn. Mastitis can be discouraging,
but it is not a reason to quit breastfeeding if it is taken care of quickly.
