prevention and care of human mastitis

1. What it is
Why it happens
How to deal with it

2.  Mastitis occurs in a breastfeeding mother
when one or more milk ducts become
clogged. Symptoms include pain, heat,
and redness at the site, as well as
exhaustion and flu or fever-like symptoms.

3.  You get a lot of this…

4.  Mastitis is not just a people problem…

5. - 10% of breastfeeding
moms affected
- Could be up to 33%
- Usually within first 3
months of childbirth
- Can occur up to 2 yrs
after childbirth

7.  Why does Mastitis happen?

8. Non-infectious (Milk Stasis)
Infectious (Bacterial)

9.  Thought to occur when the breast is not
adequately drained
 Plugged ducts
 Engorgement
 Constriction of breast tissue
 Infrequent feedings
If left untreated, may lead to infectious mastitis

10.  Staphylococcus areus is the bacteria
most commonly associated with mastitis
 Streptococcus – rarely involved

11.  Breast trauma
 Eczema
 Cesarean birth
 Antibiotic administration during labor, birth or
early postpartum
 Multiple gestations

12.  Untreated mastitis can lead to an abscess of
the breast.

13.  Seek medical care right away
 Ultrasound to diagnose
 Antibiotics
 Analgesics (Tylenol)
 Surgery
 Drainage
 Continued nursing
 Pumping, if necessary

14.  Rest!
 Frequent, regular nursing
 Feed on both sides
 Empty the breasts
 Loose clothing/bra
 Warm wet compresses and gentle massage
 Eat well
 Complete medications, as prescribed

15.  For more information please contact Loving
Support at 1.800.455.4942