Navigating Mastitis: An Update on Protocols and Management by Dani Loizou
Are you aware of the latest mastitis protocols? Despite being updated in 2022, not all resources have updated to the newest information. To keep you well-informed, let's explore the recent changes in mastitis protocols, gaining a comprehensive understanding of this condition.
Mastitis is a spectrum of conditions arising from ductal inflammation, primarily affecting mammary gland ducts, alveoli, and surrounding connective tissue. It is not necessarily a “blocked duct” but rather 'localised breast inflammation,' where ducts and surrounding tissue may be congested and inflamed, affecting milk flow.
Swelling and inflammation associated with mastitis can result from a disruption in the milk microbiome. Factors such as antibiotic exposure (common during childbirth), regular use of breast pumps, certain medical conditions, or maternal genetics contribute to this disruption.
There are two differentiating types of mastitis— inflammatory mastitis, often treatable at home with remedies like cold compresses, ibuprofen, and rest; and bacterial mastitis, a bacterial infection requiring medical intervention, typically antibiotics. Importantly, mastitis poses no risk to your baby, allowing breastfeeding to continue if you feel comfortable to do so.
How to manage mastitis:
Prompt treatment is crucial in alleviating inflammation and preventing progression from inflammatory mastitis to bacterial mastitis. When dealing with mastitis, feed your baby on demand, avoiding over-emptying the breast to prevent increased milk production and inflammation.
Minimizing Breast Pump Usage: While breast pumps are valuable tools, minimize their usage during recovery. Unlike a baby's latch, pumps can exacerbate inflammation, potentially causing further discomfort.
Get yourself a good probiotic: Consider the use of probiotics to support the breast microbiome.
Avoiding Vigorous Massage: Contrary to past beliefs, vigorously massaging the affected area may increase inflammation. A gentle massage may be attempted if comfortable, however overdoing it could worsen the condition.
Cold Compress Over Warm: Previously thought to alleviate "blocked ducts," warm compresses have given way to cold compresses, recognising mastitis as an inflammation of the breast. Cold compresses will aid in reducing swelling and relieving pain.
When to Seek Professional Help:
If symptoms persist or worsen after 24 hours, or if a fever develops, seeking assessment from a GP is essential. Early intervention is key to managing mastitis effectively.
For an in-depth exploration of the protocol, refer to the journal paper "Information from The Academy Of Breastfeeding Medicine – Protocol 36 revised 2022," available at BFM-2022-29207-kbm-ver9-Mitchell_2P 360..376 (bfmed.org)
Written by Dani Loizou
Instagram: @Danithedoula_ | @thehouseofmother_
Website: The house of mother- Prenatal and Postnatal Workshops - Largs Bay (largsbayhealthandyoga.com)