Suffering with mastitis? Why not enroll in this study
Curtin University, The University of Western Australia and Monash University are conducting a study on mastitis.
They are looking for mothers experiencing mastitis to join their study.
Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast that can lead to infection.
Mastitis is a common breastfeeding problem, reported to occur in one in six women.
Symptoms:
- Feeling like you have the flu; you may feel hot and have a headache, body aches and pains
- Sore red area on the breast
To prevent mastitis:
- Breastfeed as often as your baby needs (normally 8 to 12 times in 24 hours for a new baby).
- Don’t miss or put off breastfeeds.
- Wake your baby for a feed if your breasts become too full. If your baby doesn’t want to feed you may need to express a small amount of milk.
- See a lactation consultant or maternal and child health nurse to make sure your baby is attaching and feeding well at your breast.
- Offer both breasts at each feed. If your baby only feeds from one breast make sure to offer the alternate breast at the next feed.
- Express a small amount of milk after feeds if your breasts still feel full – express only until your breasts feel comfortable.
- Avoid giving your baby formula feeds or other fluids unless advised to by a midwife, nurse or doctor.
- Avoid pressure on your breasts from clothes or from your fingers when feeding.
- Try to get some rest during the day when your baby is asleep.
