Mastitis- When Nursing Becomes Painful

Nursing Isn’t Always Fun

Mastitis is commonly experienced by breastfeeding mothers and is a common reason for weaning earlier than planned. It is an inflammatory condition of the breast which may or may not be accompanied by infection.

Mastitis can cause breast pain, a lump or nodule, redness, swelling, fever, and flu-like symptoms, and it can occur in one or both breasts. It can last anywhere from 2 days to a couple weeks.

Breastfeeding or expressing more frequently can help speed up the recovery process and ensure you maintain an adequate milk supply. Antibiotics may be necessary to treat a bacterial infection if one is present.

Although the cause for mastitis is unclear, blocked ducts, engorgement, and cracked nipples have all been associated. Poor fitting clothing, such as tight bras, and sleeping on your stomach causes compression on the breast tissue. That pressure on the breast tissue, inadequate milk drainage as well as latching difficulties can lead to blocked ducts.

Chiropractic adjustments restore motion to the spine, which restores function to your nervous system. This is especially important in the upper neck as this is where your cranial nerves are rooted. The Vagus Nerve indirectly stimulates the pituitary gland, which controls the production of prolatin, a hormone necessary for lactation. The trigeminal, facial, and accessory nerves all contribute to a proper latch by your baby when nursing.

By getting adjusted, you improve the function of your pituitary gland so you produce an appropriate amount of milk to nurse your baby. When your child gets adjusted, it can improve their suckling and jaw function leading to a better latch and adequate milk drainage. All this leads to a decreased risk of blocked ducts, and thereby less of a chance of developing mastitis. This also results in more efficient nursing and your baby will continue to grow into a happy, healthy person that can adapt to the challenges of life.

To learn more about how chiropractic can help you and your baby connect deeply during feedings and what it means for after the initial stages of life, consider having a full neuro evaluation done with us. You can book your new patient appointment conveniently online at the link below!