Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue that can cause pain and discomfort, sometimes involving an infection. For breastfeeding individuals, certain pumping practices can increase the risk of its development.
What is Mastitis?
Mastitis presents as breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness, often affecting only one breast. Individuals might also experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches. This condition primarily involves inflammation, occurring when milk becomes stagnant in the breast, known as milk stasis. If a blocked milk duct does not clear, this inflammation can worsen, and bacteria can enter the breast tissue through cracks in the nipple or duct openings, leading to an infection.
How Pumping Can Contribute to Mastitis
Pumping practices can heighten the risk of mastitis through several mechanisms. Incomplete breast emptying is a common factor, occurring from infrequent or short pumping sessions, or an inefficient pump. Stagnant milk creates an environment where bacteria can multiply, increasing inflammation and infection risk.
Clogged milk ducts also contribute, arising from incomplete emptying or external pressure like tight clothing. If unresolved, trapped milk leads to inflammation and potential infection.
Damage to the nipple or breast tissue provides another entry point for bacteria. Improper flange size, excessive suction, or trauma from pumping can create cracks or sores, allowing bacteria from the skin or a baby’s mouth to enter the milk ducts.
Poor hygiene practices, such as not regularly cleaning pump parts, can introduce bacteria into the milk. All parts of the breast pump that come into contact with breast milk should be cleaned after each use to prevent bacterial growth.
Sudden changes in pumping schedules, like abruptly stopping or reducing frequency, can lead to engorgement. This rapid milk buildup increases the risk of clogged ducts and subsequent mastitis.
Preventing Mastitis While Pumping
Preventing mastitis involves consistent and mindful pumping practices. Ensuring complete breast emptying is important; this means pumping frequently and for sufficient duration, or until breasts feel soft and drained. If breasts still feel full after a pumping session, expressing a small amount of additional milk can help.
Proper flange fit is important to prevent nipple damage and ensure effective milk removal. Consulting a lactation consultant can help determine the optimal flange size for individual needs.
Maintaining strict hygiene for all pump parts is fundamental. All components that contact milk should be washed with soap and water after each use. Regularly sanitizing pump parts through boiling, steaming, or using a dishwasher’s sanitize setting further reduces bacterial presence.
Addressing clogs promptly can prevent them from escalating into mastitis. Strategies include continuing frequent milk removal, applying a cold compress to reduce inflammation, and gently massaging the affected area. If reducing pumping frequency, do so gradually over several days or weeks to allow the body to adjust milk production and avoid engorgement. Adequate rest, hydration, and stress management support the body’s immune system.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Individuals should seek medical attention if symptoms of mastitis do not improve within 12 to 24 hours of self-care measures, or if they worsen. Signs that warrant prompt medical evaluation include a persistent fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher, worsening breast pain, red streaks on the breast, or pus discharge. These symptoms can indicate a bacterial infection that may require antibiotics. Early intervention is important to prevent complications, such as the formation of a breast abscess, which may need surgical drainage. If mastitis recurs, or if there are concerns about pumping technique, consulting with a lactation consultant can provide tailored guidance and support.