About one in five mums will experience mastitis within six months of having a baby, but most of us know little about the condition.
So what exactly is it?
Well, it's basically inflamed breast tissue, and is generally caused by a blocked milk duct, but can also be caused by cracked nipples.
It's pretty common to get blockages when your milk first comes in and your breasts are engorged. But if you don't clear these lumps and blockages, that's when mastitis can strike.
It usually occurs in one breast, but in particularly bad cases, it affects both breasts. If you have mastitis, chances are you'll know as it's not a subtle condition.
Not only will your breast be covered in red, hot, streaky marks, you'll also have flu-like symptoms - aching muscles and bones, high temperatures, chills and headaches.
These symptoms can escalate quickly if not treated, so don't be a martyr, whatever you do!
Treating it
Rest as much as you can. Ask your friends or family to help you care for your child so you can put your feet up.
Apply warmth to the affected breast before you feed and hand express a little to release the blockage.
Feed your child as often as possible. Two-to-three hourly is recommended.
Place cold packs, frozen nappies or cold cabbage leaves over your breasts after a feed to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
Feed from your sore breast first while your baby's sucking is stronger, but don't forget to feed off your other breast too. That way, you'll help to avoid the mastitis from switching sides.
Seek medical help if your symptoms don't improve in 12 hours, or if your temperature stays above 38 degrees for a sustained period.
Preventing it
Remove your bra when you feed. Blocked ducts are often caused by pressure from underwire bras or fingers “pressing down to make room for the baby to breath."
Change feeding positions regularly.
Try to relax when you feed. Listen to calming music, close your eyes and focus on the connection with your baby.
Don’t skip feeds - feed your newborn every two to three hours.
If your baby only feeds from one side and is finished, hand express to relieve pressure on the other side, or use a breast pump.
Give your breast a gentle massage while your baby feeds to encourage the flow of milk. Massage down towards the nipple from every angle.
If possible, get your partner to help overnight with settling the baby. Tired mothers are more susceptible to mastitis.
Check your breasts for lumps every time you feed. Mastitis can set in very quickly, so you need to get rid of blockages as soon as they occur.
Get help around the house. Mother’s bodies are already so fragile after birth, so avoid any unnecessary household chores.
Finally, be aware that while mastitis is common in the early weeks while your breasts are adjusting, mothers are also susceptible when their baby is weaning or drops feeds while sick or teething.
Keep checking for lumps!
