Regarding using massage in the treatment of mastitis, it is recommended in
the last two editions of the Breastfeeding Answer Book (page 498 of the
newest edition):

 

"Suggest she massage the affected area gently while it is warm, working over
the lump using the palm of her hand and all her fingers in a gentle but firm
circular motion.  If she can do it comfortably, also suggest the mother use
her fingertips to knead her breast as part of the massage, starting at the
armpit and working toward the nipple."

 

I was the queen of mastitis and plugged ducts while nursing my first
(undiagnosed oversupply) and I remember vividly reading this information a
few other places as well.  The reasoning behind it was that the milk became
thicker in the plugged duct and massaging would loosen it again so it could
be expressed out easier.  One book even suggested using a comb gently from
my chest wall to the nipple.  For anyone who has tried to put any pressure
whatsoever on a plugged duct or mastitis lump, IT HURTS!  Wanting so badly
to get rid of the plug, I tried to comply, of course with tears streaming
down my face.  It's a good thing I'm strong-willed or I'd be a formula
feeder. 

 

My suggestion to other moms was to use the shower massage attachment with as
warm of water as they could tolerate, using the pulsing massage.  This
served to apply moist heat and massage at the same time, yet wasn't anywhere
near as painful as doing it manually.  Then Mom hops out of the shower,
quickly towels off, and pops baby onto the affected breast ASAP.  Anytime I
tried to avoid the shower for whatever reason (usually thanks to my
high-needs baby), the lump didn't resolve as quickly.

 

HTH,

 

Debbie Gillespie

LLLL

Tempe, AZ

 


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