Natural Remedies for Mastitis Relief
The journey of motherhood is filled with many beautiful moments but also comes with its share of challenges. One challenge that many breastfeeding moms experience is the misery of mastitis.
What is Mastitis?
Mastitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the breast tissue, often accompanied by infection. A red, swollen, and tender area of the breast, pain with nursing, fever, and flu-like symptoms are common symptoms. In short, it sucks.
You should consult your doctor, who may need to prescribe antibiotics if an infection is present. However, there are some things you can do at home to help yourself heal and provide comfort.
Here Are Ten Natural Remedies for Mastitis Relief
Rest - Mastitis is often our body’s way of telling us to slow down. Once you have it, rest is essential for your body to fight off the infection.
Frequent Breastfeeding or Pumping- Breastfeeding through mastitis is safe for your baby and so important for unclogging milk ducts and keeping your milk flowing.
Massage - Massaging the breast down towards the nipple can help unclog the milk ducts. If you have sesame oil you can warm up to rub in while you massage even better!
Castor Oil Packs - Soak a cloth in castor oil, apply it to the affected breast, and cover it in plastic wrap. The ricinoleic acid in the castor oil will help reduce inflammation and swelling. You can also use heat on top of the pack. Be sure to wash the breast before feeding your baby.
Hot and Cold Compress - Use a hot compress before nursing to loosen the clogged duct and a cold compress after nursing to relieve swelling. Chilled cabbage leaves work great as a cold compress and have compounds that reduce inflammation and swelling.
Raw Garlic - Garlic has natural antibiotic properties and can boost the immune system. Take 2-5 cloves daily.
Echinacea - An echinacea tincture, taken topically on the affected area or orally, 4-5 times a day can also aid the immune system and fight infection.
Vitamin C - Taking 3,000 - 5,000 mg of this immune-boosting vitamin daily is a great way to speed up the healing process.
Probiotics - The Lactobacillus strains of probiotics are shown to be helpful in fighting mastitis infections. They help restore balance to your body’s bacteria and are essential if you’ve had to treat mastitis with antibiotics.
Hydration- This is always key for overall health, especially when our bodies are healing!
How to Prevent Mastitis in the First Place
Mastitis typically appears within the first six weeks postpartum but can happen anytime. Stress, dropped feedings, clogged milk ducts, and bacteria entering through cracked or damaged nipples can all lead to mastitis. Here are some tips to help you avoid mastitis altogether.
Make Sure Your Bras Are the Right Fit- Too tight and constricting bras can contribute to clogged milk ducts.
Take Care of Your Nipples - Ensure cleanliness and hygiene during breastfeeding. Cleanse the nipple area before and after breastfeeding to prevent infection. If you are dealing with cracked nipples, use a natural nipple balm or breastmilk on the nipple and air dry.
Make Tansitions Gradually - Decreasing feeding sessions gently, rather than stopping abruptly, will prevent engorgement and potential clogged ducts.
Manage Stress - High-stress levels can contribute to mastitis. Try to make stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and gentle movement a part of your daily routine.
Get Your Rest - Once again, mastitis is our body’s way of telling us to slow down. Especially when you're in those first six weeks postpartum, it is essential to give your body the rest it needs to heal.
We hope these tips help provide you with some relief. We are not doctors, and this does not serve as medical advice. Mastitis can become serious if left untreated. It is important to speak with your healthcare provider, especially if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.
