Mastitis

Occasionally, if breast engorgement continues for some time, the breasts will become inflamed and a secondary infection may set in. This can be distressing and quite painful if not treated promptly. If you have mastitis, your breasts will be swollen and tender and you may also feel generally unwell or feverish. The affected area may look red and be sore to touch. The treatment for mastitis is usually paracetamol for pain relief, in addition to a short course of antibiotics. It is important to continue breastfeeding, and it may be easier for you to position your baby so that feeding positions for different feeds, in order to allow drainage of all milk ducts. Check for lumps after each feed and if you find any either massage them, or express the milk from the ducts in this area.

Babies who refuse the breast

There are many causes for a baby suddenly refusing the breast. A baby may simply be distracted by his surroundings, he may have a blocked nose or be unwell, or there may be a change in the mother’s milk supply for any number of reasons. Often the cause cannot be identified. Never try to force your baby to the breast if he is refusing feeds and do not lose confidence in your ability to breastfeed; breast breast, discuss possible tactics to overcome the problem with your maternal and child health nurse, your doctor or a breastfeeding counsellor.

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