Mastitis Mayhem: Let’s Tame the Pain Together!

Oh, mastitis. The uninvited guest that crashes your breastfeeding party. One minute you’re blissfully nursing your little one like a milk goddess, and the next, BAM — your boob feels like it’s been hit by a truck, you're shivering under three blankets, and even your eyelashes ache. Sound familiar?

Don’t panic. Don’t quit. And definitely don’t suffer in silence. MomaBee is here to help!

What is Mastitis Anyway?

Mastitis is a fancy way of saying “your boob is not happy.” It’s basically breast tissue inflammation, and sometimes it comes with an infection — just to keep things spicy. Symptoms might include:

• Pain and tenderness
• Redness and heat
• Fever and flu-like feelings (chills and body aches)
• Feeling downright miserable

But here’s the good news: it’s generally safe to keep breastfeeding — in fact, it’s encouraged! Your milk is still magical and totally safe for baby.

What Causes This Breast Mayhem?

Let’s break it down:

• Blocked milk ducts – Think of your boob as a freeway. If there’s a traffic jam (hello, clog), everything backs up.
• Bacteria invasion – Sometimes, bacteria sneak in through a crack or sore on the nipple and stir up trouble.
• Oversupply or infrequent feeds – Too much milk sitting around can create pressure and inflammation.

The Calm in the Chaos: Nurturing Your Way Through Mastitis — You’ve Got This, Mama!

This doesn’t mean your breastfeeding journey is over — you’re doing better than you think. You just need a game plan. Here's your survival guide:

• Feed, don’t flood
  Keep breastfeeding or pumping on demand — not excessively trying to “empty” the breast. That can actually make inflammation worse.

• Massage... but make it gentle
  Gentle breast massage or lymphatic drainage is soothing and helpful.

• Cold is gold
  Pop those cold compresses on between feeds. Instant relief from swelling and pain!

• Probiotics for the win
  Some research suggests probiotics might help prevent or manage mastitis. Tiny but mighty!

• Lecithin
  This supplement may help keep your milk flowing smoothly — like olive oil for your milk ducts. Always consult with your doctor before taking any medications while breastfeeding.

• Antibiotics: the last resort
  Only needed for confirmed infections. Talk to your GP first!

• Ease up on the stimulation
  Too much pumping or frequent hand expression can overstimulate the breast and worsen inflammation. Less can be more.

• Nipple shields? Proceed with caution
  They can sometimes get in the way of milk transfer and the good bacteria dance. Best to check with a lactation pro. MomaBee would be happy to support.

But Can I Still Breastfeed?

YES! And here’s how to make it more manageable:

• Offer the sore boob first – When baby’s hungriest, they’ll suck more effectively and help drain things out.
• Can’t latch? Pump or hand express – Still need to keep things moving.
• Gentle is key – Start pump sessions low and slow. Your boobs will thank you.

Call in the Boob Squad (That's Us)

Mastitis can sneak up on anyone — but with the right knowledge (and a little support from your favourite lactation Mama), it doesn’t have to derail your breastfeeding goals.

Whether you're expecting, in the early days of nursing, or just want to know how to keep your boobs happy — MomaBee can teach you the right tools.

Think you might have mastitis? Reach out to your GP ASAP.

Want to prevent it, manage it, or keep your feeding journey going strong? Book a session with MomaBee today — we're here with tea, tissues, and the tactics to keep you and your baby thriving.

This part of the journey can feel overwhelming — but you’re not meant to do it alone, and definitely not while juggling sore boobs and sleep deprivation.