Clogged milk ducts can lead to an infection called mastitis. You’ll know you have it if your breast becomes engorged, feels tender and very sore, and you experience flu-like symptoms like exhaustion and chills. To prevent mastitis, nurse your baby frequently (even if she isn’t actually crying for milk, she’ll nurse) and avoid sleeping on your stomach. To treat mastitis, alternate cold and warm compresses. Use a cold pack, or frozen veggies wrapped in a pillowcase, to provide cooling relief, and take a bath or shower (or apply a warm washcloth) to improve circulation while gently massaging the area. Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief. Keep nursing on both breasts.
Just as importantly, get off your feet and into bed. Drop all housework and get your partner to take care of you with healthy foods and ample liquids. If you experience recurring episodes of mastitis, or feel sicker by the hour (or your fever is going up), see a doctor. You may need antibiotics.
7. You need a support network
Once you decide to breastfeed, you need a support team. So line up your own pro-breastfeeding support squad to answer your questions and keep you motivated. Get other moms you know who nursed onto your speed dial. Your mom/mom-in-law and hubby can support you by bringing you warm tea (not hot for the obvious safety reasons), water or juice during your nursing sessions. And check out these websites:
• DrJackNewman.com, a resource-rich site from renowned Canadian breastfeeding advocate Dr. Jack Newman.
• Breastfeeding.com, a site rich in articles as well as video content showing correct latching-on techniques and common mistakes and their fixes.
Get more tips on making your breastfeeding experience the best it can be.
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