Some basic stuff here, but I need stories.

Baby was 3 wks when I was contacted.  Mom had the worst sore nipples I've
seen, tissue was missing.  OOHH! Baby was gaining beautifully even though
she was nipple feeding and feeding every three hours daytime and often going
four at night.  Mom pumped for four days (good supply) and resumed b'feeding
one side at a time as nipples healed. Three days of joy as there was no
pain.  Then a duct beneath the nipple(6 o'clock) became plugged.  I
recommended warm soaks/compresses and frequent feeding with massage.  That
night baby chose to sleep 6 hours and Mom woke with a LARGE lump beneath the
areola, making it hard to compress.   Baby was back to nipple feeding on
that side.  Mom pumped to soften the area then b'fed.  Other lumps formed.
Then came fever, etc.  Mom wanted to avoid antibiotic if possible, as she
has a history of yeast inf.

She took immune system boosters, vitamins, rested, and all of the standard
practices.  It was much better and the lumps were softening and she was
feeling good.  Then one of her series of "helpers" wasn't helpful (Mom
wasn't at ease with her being there.)  Baby was very fussy, unlike her usual
disposition and Mom got tired and despondent  That was resolved and things
seemed to be going well and... Dad sleepily turned off night alarm and baby
slept 6 hours!  Back to hugh lumps and some pain.  He did this two nights in
a row and I "gently" convinced her that he is not a reliable sentry.

Mother chose to go on antibiotics(Cefcil) three days ago and the pain is
gone, but the large lump behind the areola is still there and others come
and go. The large one is about 3 inches in diameter and baby has decided
that that side is no good as she can't latch on. Mom is pumping that side
while baby happily and expertly feeds off the "good" side.

My questions are, will these lumps go away?  What is in there?  Is there a
risk of abcess?  Would lecithin be advised?
-----
Just got a call and a new red sore area has come up.  I suggested she call
her OB.

What say you Lactnetters out there?  Help!

Pat Gima, IBCLC
Milwaukee