Greetings to all the dedicated mothers and mothers-to-be. Today, we’re diving deep into a subject that has long been a source of concern and discomfort for breastfeeding women—blocked milk ducts and mastitis. Recent advancements in medical research have led to a groundbreaking shift in our understanding and treatment of these conditions.
A Revolution in Lactation Medicine 📚
In 2022, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) unveiled its updated Mastitis Spectrum Protocol. This game-changing document, grounded in rigorous clinical research, has fundamentally altered our understanding of mastitis and blocked milk ducts. While the 17-page protocol is a dense read, we’ll distill its key points for you.
Mastitis: A New Understanding 🌡️
The conventional wisdom held that mastitis originated from a blocked milk duct, which then led to bacterial infection. However, recent research reveals that the root cause is inflammation in the breast tissue and ducts. This inflammation can lead to what we’ve known as a “plugged duct,” but the condition is actually exacerbated by excessive feeding and forceful massage.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Treatment 🚫✔️
The new protocol debunks several traditional practices that were thought to alleviate symptoms but actually worsen the condition.
Here’s what you should avoid: 🚫
– Aggressive massage to unclog ducts
– Nursing or pumping more or less than usual
– Using massage tools or vibrating devices
– Applying castor oil, epsom salt soaks, or hot suction devices
– Employing “dangle nursing” positions for unclogging
Instead, the new guidelines recommend: ✔️
– Using ice packs between feeds to reduce inflammation
– Considering ibuprofen for pain relief
– Supplementing with soy or sunflower lecithin
– Incorporating probiotics for a balanced microbiome
– Nursing based on your baby’s cues
– Managing hyperlactation by not excessively pumping
– Wearing a well-fitting, supportive bra
– Opting for gentle hand expression and light sweeping strokes for massage, if it provides relief
When to Seek Medical Attention 🚨
If you experience persistent fever for more than 24 hours, consult a healthcare provider for a potential bacterial mastitis diagnosis. This condition usually requires antibiotic treatment, complemented by probiotics. Importantly, bacterial mastitis is not contagious and does not necessitate stopping breastfeeding.
Nipple Blebs: A Side Note 🌼
These small white bumps on the nipple can further impede milk flow. Contrary to previous advice, trying to remove or ‘pop’ them can cause more harm. ABM suggests using a steroid cream and lecithin for treatment.
The Importance of Rest 🛌
Despite the shift in treatment protocols, the fundamental advice remains: rest and nurse on demand. Mastitis often serves as a reminder for self-care, signaling the need for you to take a step back and allow your body to recover.
For more information, you can refer to the ABM Protocol.
I hope this article provides a comprehensive and enlightening look at the new paradigm in lactation care. Your well-being and your baby’s health are paramount, and staying updated on the latest medical advice is crucial in achieving both.