Let’s bust some mastitis misconceptions
When it comes to breastfeeding, mastitis is one of those words that can make any new mama wince. You’re happily navigating your breastfeeding journey when – bam! – you’re faced with pain, swelling, and maybe even a fever. Then come the stories, advice, and (yes) myths that everyone swears by. In this post, we’ll tackle the five biggest lies about mastitis and reveal the truth so you can handle it like a pro.
Lie #1: “Mastitis Only Happens to Breastfeeding Moms”
More of a “fun” fact than anything (and I use the term “fun” lightly of course). Although mastitis is most common during breastfeeding, it’s not exclusive to breastfeeding mamas. Mastitis simply means inflammation of breast tissue, and while breastfeeding mamas are more prone to it due to the constant breast changes at this time, it can also occur in women of all ages, men, and even babies!
Lie #2: “You Need Antibiotics to Treat Mastitis Every Time”
This one’s tricky because antibiotics can be super helpful, but they’re not always the only solution. Not every case of mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection; in fact, most cases start as an inflammatory reaction that may turn bacterial. So we usually want to begin management with a few targeted remedies. For many moms, warm compresses, gentle massage, and frequent nursing or pumping to your usual routine are all that’s needed to ease the pain and resolve the inflammation. If symptoms persist despite your efforts, or your symptoms are severe to begin with, that’s when antibiotics come in – but they’re not your first and only line of defense!
Lie #3: “If You Have Mastitis, Stop Breastfeeding Right Away!”
Here’s a surprising truth: breastfeeding helps clear up mastitis. When you keep the milk flowing through breastfeeding or pumping, it prevents engorgement, which can make the inflammation worse. Yes, it may hurt initially, but keeping up with breastfeeding or pumping is actually one of the best things you can do. Plus, if you’re on antibiotics, they’re generally safe for your baby too. As always, consult your healthcare provider, but don’t stop breastfeeding cold turkey – your milk flow is actually part of the solution.
Lie #4: “Mastitis Only Happens When Milk Ducts Are Blocked”
While blocked ducts can be common cause due to the lack of milk flow, mastitis can occur own its own accord. Actually, both blocked ducts and mastitis occur on a spectrum of inflammation. So it depends on how your body reacts to the cause to how the problem presents.
Lie #5: “If You Don’t Have a Fever, It’s Not Mastitis”
Fever is often associated with mastitis, but it’s not a requirement for diagnosis. Some mamas will experience all the other symptoms – like breast pain, swelling, and redness – without ever running a fever. If you feel achy and notice redness or tenderness in one area of your breast, take it as a sign that mastitis might be on its way, fever or no fever. Early treatment can mean less pain and a faster recovery, so don’t wait for that temperature spike to take action!
Wrapping Up: Busting Mastitis Myths for Better Health
Mastitis can feel intimidating, especially with all these myths swirling around. But now that you’re armed with the facts, you’re in a better position to take care of yourself and get the right help when you need it. Remember, every breastfeeding journey is unique, and if you’re dealing with mastitis, you’re not alone. Many moms face it, get through it, and come out stronger.
So, next time someone tells you one of these “truths” about mastitis, smile, nod, and remember – you know better! And don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider or lactation consultant if you need some extra guidance along the way. Breastfeeding might have its challenges, but with a little knowledge (and some gentle myth-busting), you’ve got this!
Author: Elise Fuller
Osteopath & Your Two Jugs Co-Founder
Elise Fuller & Katie Willy
Osteopaths & Your Two Jugs Co-Founders
Elise & Katie are Melbourne based osteopaths who have been actively treating breastfeeding women in clinic since 2015. During 2020 lockdown they launched Your Two Jugs to educate more mamas about how to treat their own mastitis, blocked ducts and engorgement. Their online video based courses Boobology and Mastitis Rescue is available now with all the techniques we show our mamas in clinic.
Your Two Jugs is passionate about support for mamas from the top. Boob Hero is a comprehensive health care practitioner course to educate manual therapists on their contribution to supporting breastfeeding women with hands on care. Empowerment all starts with education, and the more support available for women, the better.
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