The infection that occurs in the breasts of women during the lactation period is called Lactation Mastitis or Puerperal mastitis
Mastitis usually manifests itself as unilateral reddening, warming and swelling of the breast after birth. Breastfeeding causes breast pain and the milk from the breast does not drain completely. In addition, swelling of the armpit glands, weakness and high fever may be observed. Mastitis is mostly seen within a few weeks following birth, but it can also be seen at any time during breastfeeding (if it occurs within the first 40 days, it is called Postpartum mastitis). It may require intervention (abscess drainage).
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MASTITIS?
a) In the early period
Pain, Redness, Regional temperature increase , Stiffness
b)In the later period
Symptoms such as increased body temperature and extreme fatigue may be observed. When such symptoms are observed, one should immediately consult a doctor.
WHY DOES LACTATION MASTITIS OCCUR?
If, after breastfeeding, milk remains accumulated in the breast due to blockage of one of the milk ducts, Accumulated milk can lead to infection.
Bacteria; It can enter one of the milk ducts from the baby's mouth, from the mother's breast skin surface, or from a crack in the nipple.
One of the most important causes of mastitis is poor breastfeeding technique
WHAT ARE THE FACTORS THAT FACILITATE THE OCCURANCE OF MASTITIS?
- The first few weeks of the breastfeeding period after birth
- Cracked nipples
- Using a single position during breastfeeding (complete emptying of the breast may not be possible )
- Excessive fatigue and stress
- Poor nutrition
- Wearing tight underwear
HOW IS THE TREATMENT OF MASTITIS?
Antibiotic treatment; breastfeeding period An appropriate antibiotic must be used (determined by the physician).
Massaging the breast and applying warm wet compresses before breastfeeding will help open the milk ducts. In order for the breast infection to regress, it is very important not to accumulate milk in the breast. For this reason, if the color of the milk coming from the breast with mastitis is very cloudy, it is recommended to empty it through the pump until the color of the milk becomes normal, not to breastfeed, and to prevent the accumulation of milk. Also, it should not be forgotten to breastfeed or empty the other breast. Cracks and wounds in the breast increase the possibility of infection. Such wounds need to be treated with appropriate medications.
DOES IT NEED TO STOP BREASTFEEDING IF MASTITIS HAPPENS?
Except for very rare cases (persistent breast abscesses that do not heal), it is necessary to stop breastfeeding. It is not. On the contrary, breastfeeding is recommended to prevent the accumulation of milk in the milk ducts.
WHAT IS BREAST ABSCESS AND HOW IS IT TREATED;
If mastitis is not treated properly early, abscess in the breast may occur. may occur and this may require surgical intervention. Differentiation between mastitis and abscess is possible with breast ultrasonography.
Abscess drainage under general anesthesia gives better results. All abscess foci should be opened, combined and good drainage should be achieved. In cases where healing is delayed, a biopsy should be performed from the abscessed area to eliminate the suspicion of cancer and a culture should be performed to select appropriate antibiotics.
HOW CAN BREASTFEEDING MOTHERS ARE PROTECTED FROM BREAST INFECTIONS?
Breastfeeding correctly. should be done, make sure that the breast is completely emptied. Care should be taken to prevent cracks and wounds on the nipple, and anti-crack creams should be used. Great attention should be paid to hygiene. Attention should be paid to nipple care
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