Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that can sometimes involve an infection. It often affects individuals who are lactating, particularly during breastfeeding. Understanding its connection to pumping practices is important for prevention and management.
What is Mastitis?
Mastitis is an inflammation in the breast, which may or may not be accompanied by an infection. Common symptoms include breast pain, tenderness, swelling, and warmth to the touch. The affected area may also appear red, though this can be less visible on darker skin tones. Individuals might also experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches.
The underlying causes often involve milk stasis, which occurs when milk is not effectively removed from the breast. This can lead to clogged milk ducts, where milk backs up and causes irritation and inflammation in the surrounding tissue. If bacteria, commonly from the skin’s surface or the infant’s mouth, enter the milk ducts, an infection can develop.
How Pumping Can Contribute to Mastitis
Pumping, while beneficial for milk expression, can create conditions that increase the likelihood of mastitis if not managed carefully. Incomplete breast emptying during pumping sessions can leave milk in the ducts, promoting milk stasis and increasing the risk of inflammation and potential infection. This can occur if pumping sessions are too short or if the breast is not fully drained.
Infrequent or skipped pumping sessions also contribute to milk stasis, as milk accumulates in the breasts for extended periods. This prolonged fullness can lead to engorgement and blocked ducts, creating a favorable environment for bacterial growth. Similarly, sudden changes in a pumping schedule, such as abruptly reducing frequency or duration, can cause milk to build up and trigger inflammation.
Improper flange size is a common factor that can lead to mastitis. A flange that is too small can cause friction and damage to the nipple, restricting milk flow and potentially leading to clogged ducts. Conversely, a flange that is too large might pull in too much of the areola, resulting in ineffective milk removal and discomfort. Both scenarios can hinder complete milk drainage.
Excessive pressure on the breasts, from sources like tight bras or ill-fitting pump parts, can compress milk ducts and impede milk flow. This consistent pressure can contribute to blocked ducts and subsequent inflammation. Furthermore, inadequate cleaning of pump parts can introduce bacteria into the milk ducts, as bacteria can multiply on unclean surfaces and then be transferred to the breast during pumping, leading to infection.
Preventing Mastitis While Pumping
To significantly reduce the risk of mastitis, ensure complete emptying of the breasts during each pumping session. Pump until breasts feel soft and drained to prevent milk from lingering in the ducts and causing blockages.
Maintain a consistent pumping schedule to prevent milk stasis. Regular, frequent sessions keep milk flowing and prevent engorgement. If schedule adjustments are necessary, make them gradually to allow the body to adapt without sudden milk build-up.
Use the proper flange fit for comfortable and effective milk removal. Measure nipple diameter to determine the correct size, as an ill-fitting flange can cause pain, nipple damage, and inefficient milk expression. Consulting a lactation consultant can help ensure an accurate fit.
Gentle massage and applying warmth during pumping can aid milk flow and promote better drainage. Massaging the breast towards the nipple while pumping can help dislodge any potential clogs. Thoroughly clean and sterilize all pump parts after each use to prevent bacterial contamination. Additionally, avoid restrictive clothing, such as tight bras, to prevent unnecessary pressure on milk ducts and promote unrestricted milk flow.
Recognizing and Treating Mastitis
Recognizing the signs of mastitis early is important for prompt management. If symptoms such as breast tenderness, warmth, swelling, redness, and flu-like symptoms including fever and chills appear, especially if they worsen or do not improve within 12 to 24 hours with self-care, seeking medical attention from a healthcare provider is recommended.
Medical treatment for mastitis often involves antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed. Alongside antibiotics, pain relief medications like ibuprofen can help manage discomfort and reduce inflammation. Continued milk removal, whether through nursing or pumping, is crucial for recovery, as it helps clear milk from the affected breast.
Self-care measures can complement medical treatment. Applying cool compresses to the affected breast between pumping sessions can help reduce swelling and pain. Gentle massage can also support milk flow, and staying hydrated and adequate rest are important for recovery.