Amy;

This mother is having more problems than just pain in her breast. She is
exhausted. She's having marital problems, she is employed. She is being
asked to do far more than she is able, or even wants to at this time. Some
suggestions for night time parenting might help in addition to the other
ideas you have been receiving. Put matresses on the floor so she can sleep
with the children, tending them more easily at night. Let her talk about her
marriage, maybe suggest a book, support group (LLL), to help her deal with
this area in her life. Maybe you could visit her while her husband is home,
help him understand what she is feeling, at least physically. The 'mastitis'
is ever looming in her life, overshadowing her daily activities, she is in a
lot of pain and needs all the friendliness she can get from her man. This
mom needs a doula, needs the church women to come in with dinner for several
nights, a hot relaxing bath, she needs a big hug. I tell moms to be good to
themselves when they are having bf difficulties. I give them permission to
call in sick, to tell the outside world "I'm taking some time off", for
heaven's sake, we can't do it all. My heart goes out to this mother.

Joya Bezette
LLLL, WIC PC
Lactation Consultant
So Utah
Joya Bezette
LLLL, WIC PC
Lactation Consultant
So. Utah