I had never heard, or thought, of such a connection before.  So, Catherine,
with all due respect, has anyone ever asked the question in a systematic
way?

Constipation in post partum or pregnant women is often relieved by a slight
increase in fluid intake, especially a teacup of nearly scalding hot water
taken just before retiring for the night, and another one before taking any
food in the morning.  Could constipation then be a marker for mild to
moderate dehydration, which might be exacerbated by mastitis if the woman is
febrile and/or feeding frequently?  With available knowledge it is harder
for me to understand how constipation could cause mastitis than the other
way round.  But it has never, ever occurred to me to link the two.
also a midwife,
Rachel Myr
Kristiansand, Norway

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