Breastfeeding can present various challenges, such as sore nipples and late-night feeds, along with plenty of baby cuddles. If you experience breast pain, flu-like symptoms, and blocked milk ducts, you may have mastitis. Here, you’ll find information on what mastitis is and the home remedies that can help treat a breast infection.
A few years back, after an 18-hour car ride with five kids (yes, I might be crazy), I developed a severe case of mastitis. The baby was content in the car, and when the kids are happy, I keep driving.
Initially, I attributed my fatigue to altitude sickness and breast tightness to not nursing all day, so I went to bed early. The next morning, I sensed something was wrong. By the afternoon, a large lump was forming in my breast, a classic sign of a clogged milk duct. Later, I ran a fever of 104, indicating my immune system was fighting off an infection. I completely understand (and sympathize) with how dreadful these infections can be!
What is Mastitis?
Our understanding of mastitis has evolved over the years. Plugged milk ducts in breastfeeding moms can lead to inflammation and infection (mastitis). Symptoms such as pain, swelling, and a lump in the breast tissue (often near the areola) indicate a blocked duct. If signs of an infection manifest, it’s likely lactation mastitis.
Risk factors and causes of mastitis include:
- Weaning too rapidly, causing breast engorgement
- Inadequate latch from the baby, leading to poor breast drainage
- Pressure on the breasts (e.g., tight bra, seatbelt)
- Oversupply resulting in breast engorgement (can also be caused by frequent pumping)
- Infection from breast damage, like cracked nipples
Symptoms of Mastitis
Common symptoms indicating mastitis include:
- Pain, swelling, redness, and/or inflammation of the breast
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches)
- A hard lump
- Nipple discharge
- Pus collection (breast abscess)
- Decreased milk production in the affected breast
When I experienced mastitis, I was far from home, away from my healthcare providers, and lacking many remedies typically available at home. I aimed to avoid antibiotics if possible, though severe cases of mastitis sometimes necessitate them to prevent abscess formation.
I engaged in extensive research and utilized natural remedies while nursing. Within four days, the lump disappeared, and all symptoms vanished. Prevention truly is better than cure, and more frequent nursing might have prevented the infection altogether.
Since I did contract mastitis, I had the opportunity to try various remedies. Here are the natural treatments that effectively helped me combat mastitis.
Natural Mastitis Treatment
Traditionally, heat and increased pumping/feeding were recommended. Massaging and regular feeding can help release a clogged duct. In cases of infection (mastitis), additional feeding or pumping can stimulate milk production and alleviate oversupply.
Given the inflammatory nature of mastitis, conventional advice includes taking over-the-counter pain and swelling medications like Tylenol (acetaminophen), Advil, and Ibuprofen. However, applying cold to the affected area and utilizing other natural remedies proved equally, if not more, effective.
1. Rest and Frequent Nursing
According to lactation consultants, mastitis may signify the need to rest and nurse more frequently. Prolonged gaps between nursing sessions can also contribute to the condition. At the first sign of mastitis, I rested in bed and nursed the baby regularly to facilitate milk flow through the blocked duct.
Experiment with various breastfeeding positions to ensure the baby receives adequate milk. Confirm the baby’s latch is strong to facilitate complete breast drainage. Look out for signs of a lip or tongue tie that could impede proper nursing:
Signs of Tongue and Lip Tie
- Nipple pain during nursing
- Creased, cracked, or bleeding nipples
- Plugged ducts, infected nipples, or mastitis
- Nipple Thrush
- Baby’s symptoms:
- Shallow latch
- Regularly pops off the breast
- Nibbles or chews on the nipple
- Makes clicking noises while nursing
- Swallows air, leading to gas, colic, or reflux
- Nurses for extended periods or has short intervals between feeds
Listening to the podcast featuring Dr. Erin Appleton could provide valuable insights on breastfeeding and oral ties.
2. Applying Cold or Heat
Cold therapy was particularly effective in alleviating pain, although heat was occasionally beneficial. Before nursing, I applied heat for 15-30 minutes to loosen the blockage in the duct, making nursing easier. Post-nursing, I used ice for 15-30 minutes to reduce swelling.
Utilize an ice pack or cold compress for cooling and anti-inflammatory relief.
3. Massage
At the time, I found resources advocating massage to release the blockage. Massaging the affected area in circular motions while nursing provided relief. Current perspectives on this approach vary. According to breast health expert Dr. Mitchell:
It is essential to understand that this isn’t a “plug” in the breast’s numerous ducts. Instead, it signifies transient engorgement of milk-making cells and fluid and blood vessel congestion.
If a mother perceives a “plug,” excessive massage should be avoided as it can traumatize breast tissue, worsen swelling, cause broken capillaries, and potentially lead to abscess formation.
The Cleveland Clinic suggests that a gentle lymphatic massage can be beneficial. However, exerting excessive pressure on the breast must be avoided. Conduct a lymphatic breast massage by gently stroking from the areola towards the lymph nodes near the collarbone and armpit to facilitate fluid movement and reduce swelling.
Consider using the Happy Ducts glycerite from Wish Garden to enhance lymph flow and hasten mastitis recovery.
Gentle massage during nursing aids milk letdown and flow. While beneficial, excessive massage could potentially cause harm. If unsure, consulting a lactation consultant (IBCLC) is advised.
4. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial when combatting mastitis. I kept a quart of water nearby at all times, maintaining constant sips to support milk production and fight off infection. Incorporating minerals is advisable since our body comprises not just water but saltwater as well!
Try this mineral drink recipe for added hydration.
5. Raw Garlic
Although garlic might not be optimal for baby’s digestive system, its antibacterial properties offer remarkable infection-fighting benefits. I consumed a few organic garlic cloves daily, a practice I’ve consistently followed during severe infections, leading to swift recovery. For ease, finely mince the garlic, ingest small amounts, and promptly chase with water. Alternatively, mixing garlic with raw honey can enhance palatability!
6. Cabbage Leaves
Recalling advice from a lactation consultant post-birth, I utilized cabbage leaves. While the remedy might not directly combat infection, it provided relief to the affected duct and enhanced comfort. A 2012 meta-analysis confirmed positive outcomes from using cabbage leaves, reducing pain, breast engorgement, and promoting prolonged breastfeeding due to increased comfort.
To employ this remedy, place a chilled cabbage leaf on the afflicted breast site and replace it every hour as necessary. Caution: Some women noted decreased milk supply using cabbage leaves, so use this remedy judiciously.
7. Vitamin C
Given my regular intake of vitamin C during travel, I swiftly administered four capsules every four hours until the infection subsided. Vitamin C reinforces the immune system and aids in combating infections effectively.
Studies examining vitamin C and E’s impact on milk production have predominantly focused on dairy animals. One study highlighted that camels with low milk and plasma vitamin C levels were more susceptible to mastitis. While human outcomes may differ, ensuring sufficient vitamin intake is crucial.
Some mothers reported positive outcomes post-feeding by gently massaging vitamin E into breast tissue.
8. Probiotics
After observing a decline in infection symptoms, I increased probiotic intake to sustain a robust immune system. High probiotic doses were continued for approximately a week before reverting to regular dosing.
A 2022 meta-analysis affirmed the benefits of probiotics in managing mastitis symptoms. Notably, probiotics minimized harmful bacteria in breast milk, benefitting both healthy and mastitis-afflicted mothers. Incorporating probiotic supplements can not only mitigate mastitis symptoms but also expedite recovery!
Final Thoughts on Home Remedies for Mastitis
Upon realizing I had mastitis, the initial day was incredibly challenging, marked by a high fever, chills, and muscle aches reminiscent of the flu. However, within 24 hours of following this regimen, my fever subsided, and I experienced significant relief. By the 48-hour mark, only a small, painful lump remained, and within three days, I was back to normal.
Mastitis can be a severe infection with potential complications. Not all cases respond to natural remedies. Should symptoms worsen or persist for a few days, or if discomfort intensifies, seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Have you encountered mastitis? How did you address it? Share your experiences below!