Mastitis is a medical term referring to inflammation of the mammary gland and is called puerperal mastitis when it occurs in breastfeeding mothers. Mastitis affects between 1 and 3% of women who breastfeed their children.
It is caused by blockage of the milk ducts called "galactophorous ducts" during lactation. The infectious condition, which usually appears two to three weeks after delivery, is characterized by symptoms ranging from cellulitis to abscess formation. It can cause painful areas in the breast or areola, and in more severe cases, general symptoms like fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms may appear. Mastitis can be distinguished from simple duct blockages by the intensity of pain, heat radiating from the affected area, redness, and fever, which are not present in duct blockages. In some cases, the fever can become so severe that antibiotic intervention is required, usually penicillins or cephalosporins. About 10% of cases develop abscesses that need surgical drainage.
Massages and the application of moist heat to the breast before breastfeeding can help open the mammary gland ducts. Cold compresses can be used to relieve pain when not breastfeeding, although it is advisable to reduce the amount of milk in the breast, so it is recommended that the baby or breast pump be used even if the mother is taking antibiotics, and breastfeeding from the affected breast should not be stopped. There have been reports that the milk content may be altered, sometimes somewhat saltier, which may cause the newborn to initially reject breastfeeding from that breast.
The presence of cracks and wounds on the nipples increases the likelihood of infection. Wearing tight clothing or ill-fitting bras can cause problems by compressing the breasts. The most common infecting organism is the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, and the most probable route for the organism to reach the maternal breasts is from the baby’s nose and fingers. Therefore, cleaning nasal mucus, especially fluids, can help prevent recurrence. In more severe cases, breastfeeding interruption and medication to suppress milk production may be necessary. A study concluded that improving and controlling stress and fatigue is important in preventing mastitis.
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