Wounds in lactating breasts drain milk, that's inevitable. If mom were breastfeeding on the incised breast, more milk would exit the nipple, the breast would be softer, and less would drain out the incision. Milk is NOT a risk for infection, it actually decreases the risk of infection because it's full of anti-infective properties. Mom could advocate for removal of the drain, or seek a second opinion from a physician more comfortable with the normally functioning (lactating) breast. I've had many moms in my practice continue to breastfeed on breasts that were treated for abscess by incision and drainage, with no sequellae. Catherine Watson Genna, IBCLC NYC *********************************************** Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html To reach list owners: [log in to unmask] Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask] COMMANDS: 1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail 2. To start it again: set lactnet mail 3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet 4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome