Treating Plugged Ducts and Mastitis

Posted on April 17, 2012 by Medela

Mastitis and plugged ducts are common breastfeeding problems, but by understanding the causes, you can treat and prevent these painful and uncomfortable conditions moving forward.

What causes a plugged duct?

It is possible for milk to back up in the milk ducts, if a mom is not emptying her breasts during feedings or when pumping breastfeeding. This can cause the tissue around the milk duct to swell and become inflamed, further limiting milk flow. This blockage is called a plugged duct. If you have a plugged duct, you may notice a tender bump on your breast that feels warm and swollen. If you begin to notice flu-like symptoms, your plugged duct may have become infected, leading to a condition like mastitis. If so, reach out to your doctor or healthcare provider to begin treating the infection.

How can I treat plugged ducts?

Keep breastfeeding! Although it may be painful, it is the best way to loosen the blockage and reduce inflammation. If it’s not too uncomfortable, have your baby nurse from your affected breast first. Typically, babies suck most vigorously at the beginning of a feeding, which will help to unclog the plugged duct. Before nursing, apply a warm compress to your breasts and massage the inflamed area, starting on the outside of the breast, working toward the nipple. This will help to open the ducts and relieve some of the discomfort. If your little one notices a difference in the milk flow and becomes frustrated, try pumping to help treat the plugged duct.

How can I prevent a plugged duct?

The best ways to prevent a plugged duct is to breastfeed often and take care of your body. By breastfeeding often, you’re helping to ensure milk is expressed completely and not left in the ducts. We know moms have busy schedules, but try to eat well, drink lots of water and get your rest.

What causes mastitis?

Mastitis is an infection or inflammation of the breast tissue caused by a plugged duct that has become infected or cracked nipples that have allowed bacteria to enter your breast tissue. In some cases, over-supply, ineffective breastfeeding or pumping, missed feeds, restrictive clothing, or bruising can cause mastitis. Moms with mastitis typically notice swelling, redness and pain, accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as nausea, fever and sometimes vomiting. Often times, the stress and exhaustion of becoming a new mother can hinder your ability to fight infection, so despite the busy times, try your best to take care of yourself, too.

How can I treat mastitis?

If you suspect mastitis, it’s best to reach out to your healthcare provider to begin treatment. Although breastfeeding or pumping may be painful, don’t stop. It will help to relieve the pressure in your breast, and ultimately help you feel better. Your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic to help fight the infection, and typically within 48 hours, you will begin to feel relief. Be sure to take the antibiotic for the number of days prescribed – don’t stop taking the antibiotic even if you are feeling better. Throughout this time, try to rest and use warm compresses to relieve discomfort.

How can I prevent mastitis?

You can prevent mastitis by breastfeeding often, taking care of your body, and keeping cracked or bleeding nipples clean. Avoid engorgement by breastfeeding or pumping frequently. If your baby had a shorter than usual feeding session, consider pumping afterwards to fully empty your breast. If you are going to be away from your baby for an extended time, be sure to pump or manually express breastmilk during the times you’d typically feed. Also, try to eat well and stay rested to give your body the strength to fight infection. Lastly, if you experience cracked or bloody nipples, consult with a lactation professional. Be sure to keep them clean and try to relieve the condition as soon as possible. For many moms, purified lanolin helps to soothe sore nipples and keep them moist

Did you experience plugged ducts or mastitis while breastfeeding? What treatment worked best for you? Share in the comments below.

Tips for Breastfeeding In Public

Posted on April 10, 2012 by Medela

Breastfeeding is one of the most natural connections between you and your baby, so it’s no wonder many moms choose to breastfeed in public. However, breastfeeding moms sometimes experience criticism for making that decision. It’s important to stay confident and know your rights about breastfeeding in public.

Laws About Breastfeeding In Public

45 states have specific laws supporting breastfeeding in public, some of which offer additional protection. Feel free to review the laws for your specific state, as it may bring added comfort in knowing the government supports your baby’s needs.

Responding to Breastfeeding Criticism

Unfortunately, public breastfeeding criticism does still exist in our culture, but don’t let that stop you. Here are some ways to respond if someone criticizes you or simply has a question about what you’re doing:

Explain the benefits of breastfeeding and your commitment to providing the best nutrition for your little one (pssst – we have a long list of breastfeeding benefits).
If someone is being rude or disrespectful to your baby’s needs, it’s ok to entirely ignore them. You know you’re doing what’s best for your baby, so don’t feel obligated to explain yourself.
Calmly discuss differences in opinion, without accepting their criticism. Disagreements happen, so don’t be afraid to defend your values.
Explain the demands of breastfeeding and how often you need to breastfeed in order to provide for your little one.
Tell them that every family is different and this is what works best for your family.

Tips for Breastfeeding In Public

Some moms have questions about how to discreetly breastfeed in a public place. Here are some suggestions to try:

Experiment with different loose-fitting shirts that allow for easy access to your breast.
Try a breastfeeding blanket if it makes you more comfortable. Many wrap around your shoulders and cover your breasts while feeding.
Keep your baby close with a baby sling. Many slings keep your baby in a natural breastfeeding position making it extremely easy to start breastfeeding on-the-go.
Practice how you would breastfeed in public in the comfort of your home. Once you feel familiar, you can begin breastfeeding in other places outside of the home.

Moms, do you have any tips to add about breastfeeding in public? How do you manage breastfeeding criticism? Share your tips in the comments below.

Breastfeeding and Returning to Work

Posted on April 3, 2012 by Medela

You’re not alone – new mothers are returning to work in large numbers. It’s normal to feel sad when it’s time to go back to work after having a baby. However, try to look at returning to work with a positive attitude and seek support from other moms that have been through the same thing, maybe even in the same office. This support and positive attitude can help make pumping easier and make the transition back to work smoother.

Talk to other breastfeeding moms in your office. They will be a great support system as you adjust to pumping at work. They may even have some tips to share that worked well in your office environment. Pumping isn’t always easy when you’re balancing the demands of your job with the needs of your baby. It also may be reassuring to know that the government supports a working mother’s need to provide breastmilk to her baby. Employers are required to provide a reasonable break for mothers to breastfeed or pump, in a space other than a bathroom. Support from other moms will help keep you calm and comfortable, allowing you to relax and pump as efficiently as possible. Remember, your supply often depends on your general health and stress level.

Keep photos and videos of your baby at work. Also, consider bringing an item of clothing or cloth that smells like your baby. These sensory experiences will help remind you of cuddling and caring for your little one and may make pumping at work easier. Those pleasant images and smells can also act as motivation to keep pumping, even on those busy days at work.

Support breastfeeding at home. Talk to your baby’s caregivers about your commitment to breastfeeding and how they can help support your hard work, even when you’re not there. Try Calma, a unique breastmilk bottle that mimics your baby’s natural feeding behavior, making it easier to transition from bottle to breast. With this bottle, milk will only flow when your baby creates a vacuum, similar to breastfeeding. Knowing your little one is getting the best care, while supporting breastfeeding will help to comfort you. Also, ask caregivers to feed your baby no later than an hour before you return home to pick him up. That way your baby will be ready to breastfeed right when you get home. Besides, who doesn’t love cuddling with their little one right when they walk in the door?

How did you stay positive while pumping at work? Share your advice in the comments below.

Breastfeeding With A Cold or Flu

Posted on March 27, 2012 by Medela

Being sick can really put a damper on your breastfeeding routine; however, in most cases, you can continue breastfeeding with the flu or a cold. So relax. There’s one less thing you need to worry about.

Why is it safe to continue breastfeeding while sick?

Breastmilk gives your baby the best protection against sickness. The protective antibodies it contains help your baby’s developing immune system fight off infection and illness. In most cases, if you have a contagious illness like a cold, flu or minor virus, your baby was exposed to it before you showed symptoms. So, just think you’re giving your baby the best chance to fight it off. On top of breastfeeding, make sure you still wash your hands often, avoid coughing or sneezing near them and put those kisses on hold for a few days (we know that can be tough).

When shouldn’t I continue breastfeeding?

Very few illnesses can be passed on through breastmilk, however it’s always best to check with your doctor to confirm. Some of these illnesses include HIV and septicemia (bacterial infection that has entered the bloodstream).

It’s important to note that not all medications to treat the cold and flu are compatible with breastfeeding. When speaking with your doctor, be sure to inform him or her of your wishes to continue breastfeeding. Also, contact your doctor before taking any new over-the-counter medications.

My supply dropped while I was sick. What can I do?

It is common for a mother’s supply to decrease while she’s ill, but typically it returns to normal once she is well. While you’re sick, continue to practice common tips to increase supply such as eating well, staying hydrated and pumping or breastfeeding often. This will help you maintain your supply throughout your sickness.

What was you’re experience breastfeeding with a cold or flu? Share in the comments below.

Tips to Calm a Baby with Colic

Posted on March 20, 2012 by Medela

Having a baby with colic isn’t easy. Here are some tips to keep you and your little one calm during this time.

What is colic?

If your healthy baby cries for an extended period of time (3 hours per day, 3 days per week, for at least 3 weeks), your baby is considered to have colic. Colic is typically not caused by any specific illness and usually goes away on it’s own. However, your baby’s intense crying can put significant stress on you and your family, so it’s no surprise that moms look for tips to minimize colic.

What should I do if I suspect colic?

Take your little one to the doctor to ensure there are no underlying medical conditions. Call a doctor immediately if your little one is vomiting, running a fever or having bloody stools, as these are not symptoms of colic. Once, you’ve ensured that your baby is just colicky; you can begin to work on ways to manage it.

How do I manage colic?

There is no perfect treatment for colic, but there are many tips that may help to improve the symptoms. If your baby has colic, try these tips:

Research has shown that the best way to reduce colic is to cuddle with your little one. Who doesn’t love snuggling? In fact, it reduced crying by 43-50%. Also, try to increase the amount of time your little one spends at breast to get more skin-to-skin contact for baby.

Some babies benefit from soothing rhythms, similar to what your baby experienced in the womb. Try spending time in a rocking chair or putting your little one in a vibrating swing or seat. Also, the vibrations of a car ride can be soothing. Even placing your baby near a running dryer or white noise machine may help.

Play soothing music for your little one. The calm melodies could be comforting.

Some babies need decreased stimulation so try swaddling him or her in a quiet, dark room.

Some colic can be caused by digestive problems, so be sure to burp your baby frequently and try gently rubbing your baby’s back.

Occasionally, a food allergy or intolerance can be to blame for both formula and breastfed babies, whether it’s lactose sensitivity or sensitivity to something in a moms diet. Talk to your doctor if you notice more intense crying around feedings.

How can I manage the stress of colic?

Colic can be extremely stressful to family members and these emotions are totally normal. Don’t feel ashamed because you’re frustrated. Be sure to take care of yourself and rest assured that your little one will grow out of this phase. When you’re frustrated, step away and take some time to compose yourself. Also, remember that you have friends and family there to support you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Was your little one colicky? What worked best to calm them? Share in the comments below.