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31st January 2023
03:51pm GMT

What should you do if you have a plugged duct?
When you detect a plugged duct, encourage your baby to feed frequently on that side. Try different positions in case one is more effective in getting the milk to flow through that particular duct.
What can you do to prevent mastitis? "Prevention is key and easy to do: Rest and empty your breasts," Lezak explains. "Continuing to empty your breasts of breastmilk on a regular basis either with the baby, hand expression, or a breast pump can help to keep you free of plugged ducts, which can cause mastitis. Avoid restrictive clothing such as bras or tight tops. Vary breastfeeding positions so all ducts are emptied. Not trying to do too much too soon after childbirth, getting enough rest and sleep, and staying hydrated with a good diet are all good ways to keep mastitis at bay.” Remember, responding to a plugged duct quickly will help to prevent it from turning into mastitis. Should I stop breastfeeding since there is an infection in my breast? Even with mastitis, your milk is not harmful to the baby, and it will help you recover more quickly if you continue breastfeeding. Occasionally a baby won’t like the slight change in the taste of the milk on the affected side. If that’s your baby, keep breastfeeding on the unaffected breast and pump the breast with mastitis, using heat and massage, and hand expression to keep the milk flowing. (If you’re pumping, you may see some of the thickened milk come through, or you may see small amounts of pus or blood in the milk. These are not harmful to the baby.) You may need to supplement temporarily. Do I need to see my doctor? If the mastitis doesn’t improve or seems to be getting worse after 24 hours, see your doctor. You may need antibiotics. Is there anything I can do myself to treat it? "Cabbage leaves on the breast can also help as they have anti-inflammatory chemicals," Lezak explains to Mothermag.com. "My main advice for mothers who call with early symptoms of mastitis is a simple routine: Heat, Rest, Empty the Breast." Some home treatments can include resting, drinking lots of fluids, eating Vitamin C-rich foods, and Echinacea to help boost your immune system."Even with mastitis, your milk is not harmful to the baby"
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