If you have mastitis, schedule an appointment for treatment at A7 Health with a trained Physiotherapist. 

Causes of mastitis

Milk that is trapped in the breast is the main cause of mastitis. Other causes include:

A blocked milk duct – If a breast does not empty completely during feeding, one of your milk ducts may become clogged. The blockage causes milk to back up, leading to an infection.

Bacteria entering your breast – Bacteria from your skin surface and from your baby’s mouth can enter the milk ducts through a tear in the skin of your nipple or through an opening in the milk duct. Stagnant milk in a breast that is not being emptied provides a breeding ground for the bacteria.

Treatment and prevention of mastitis

Mastitis that is not treated appropriately or is due to a blocked milk duct can lead to a collection of pus (abscess) in your breast. An abscess usually requires surgical drainage.

Treatment at A7 Health with a physiotherapist may include:

• Therapeutic Ultrasound
• Massage to unblock the ducts (usually up to three treatments are advised)
• Dry needling and massage
• Instructions for self-care at home

Some self-treatments include:

• Allow milk to drain completely from your breasts while breastfeeding
• Allow your baby to empty one breast completely before switching to the other breast during breastfeeding
• Change the position in which you breastfeed from one nursing session to the next
• Make sure your baby latches on properly while nursing
• If you smoke, ask your doctor about quitting smoking
• Talk to your doctor as soon as you notice signs or symptoms of breast infection

Is it safe to continue breastfeeding your baby when you have mastitis?

Yes, you should continue to breastfeed your baby. You cannot pass a breast infection to your baby through breast milk. In fact, breast milk has antibacterial properties that help the baby fight infections. Antibiotics that your doctor prescribes for mastitis are also safe for your baby.

It can be uncomfortable to breastfeed when you have mastitis. But breastfeeding helps move milk through the milk ducts and open them up. When you breastfeed your baby, you should put them on the affected breast first. This way, you will make sure that the milk does not stay in the milk ducts and allow bacteria to grow.