Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue that frequently occurs in breastfeeding mothers due to a number of reasons. This could cause swelling, pain, and redness of the breasts. It could also trigger an infection with shivering and fever.
Mastitis usually occurs when a milk duct is blocked. This blockage can be from infrequent breastfeeding, improper latching of the baby, or a very tight bra. If trapped, milk may leak into adjacent breast tissue, causing inflammation and sometimes infection.
Though it causes some discomfort, you can continue breastfeeding with Mastitis. In fact, frequent breastfeeding may clear the blockage and ease symptoms. Signs of Mastitis should be addressed quickly. Proper breast care, frequent feeding and properly latching of the baby can prevent this condition. In case symptoms continue, consulting with a certified ayurveda doctor to avoid severe complications.
Mastitis is typically caused due to problems while breastfeeding but several factors can be involved in its development. Understanding these causes may prevent the condition and facilitate management if it occurs.
Not breastfeeding often can cause milk buildup in the breasts and create pressure and blockages.
Not latching on properly may prevent the breast from emptying entirely, causing milk stasis and possible blockages.
A milk duct can become clogged sometimes if the breast is not completely emptied. This blockage can cause back up of milk and inflammation.
Rapid weaning may lead to extra milk building up in the breasts and raising the risk of Mastitis.
A too-tight bra can prevent milk flow and block the milk ducts.
High stress and lack of sleep may impair the immune defences, making you prone to Mastitis.
Scar tissue from previous breast surgeries can prevent milk from flowing freely, causing Mastitis.
Bacteria from the baby's mouth or the mother's skin may enter the milk duct through a crack in the nipple.
Mastitis is a very uncomfortable condition and may cause much more serious health issues if untreated. Recognising the signs and symptoms early may allow for timely treatment and continued breastfeeding. Following are some common signs of Mastitis:
A tender or warm area on the breast that feels uncomfortable is one of the first signs of Mastitis
The affected area may become swollen and engorged (hard).
You may experience pain or a burning sensation in the breast throughout breastfeeding.
The skin over the affected area may turn red, often in a wedge shape. This redness may be harder to spot on darker skin tones.
A fever (101 degrees Fahrenheit/38.3 degrees Celsius) and chills are common if the inflammation becomes an infection.
Generally feeling ill (fatigue and aches) are common with Mastitis.
Some women report thickened tissue or a distinctive lump in the breast from inflammation or a blocked duct.
Sometimes discharge from the nipple may be clear or contain pus or blood.
The entire effect of Mastitis could make you feel like you have the flu, with body pains and fatigue.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of Mastitis using a combination of time-tested Ayurvedic therapies coupled with personalised ayurvedic medicines and expert counselling from certified experts and specialist doctors. Each treatment plan is customised, varying from patient to patient, focussing on addresisg the root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, targetting lasting-relief and zero possibility of recurrence.
Tailored herbal formulas for calming doshas and mood stabilisation.
Relaxing methods for mental health and general well being of patients.
Treatments like Panchakarma and massages detox the body and balance emotional health.
Professional advice on adjusting your diet and lifestyle to achieve optimal health outcomes.
Ayurveda provides various natural remedies to cure Mastitis, including reducing inflammation and clearing blockages in milk ducts. These remedies balance the energies and promote health and are therefore a good option for Mastitis relief.
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus): This strong herb is known for having beneficial effects on the female reproductive system. It may aid in lactation and relieve irritated breast tissue, so it is often used for Mastitis.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces the swelling and pain of Mastitis. It may be taken orally as a capsule or paste on the affected area.
Triphala: Combining three fruits (Amalaki, Bibhitaki and Haritaki) Triphala is considered sacred in Ayurveda for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. It cleanses the body and also assists with recovery.
Guggulu (Commiphora wightii): Another anti-inflammatory agent is guggulu used for Mastitis symptoms. It reduces swelling and pain and speeds healing.
Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem possesses antifungal and antibacterial properties and could stop and combat infections in cases of infectious Mastitis. It is used internally and externally to cleanse and protect breast tissue.
Yes, mild cases resolve with home care, like frequent breastfeeding and warm compresses.
Yes, continuing to breastfeed can clear the blockage and ease symptoms faster.
Yes, Mastitis is usually on only one breast at a time.
Wear loose clothing and a supportive, non-restrictive bra to ease discomfort.
Yes, in rare cases men also develop Mastitis, usually from infection or inflammation.
Ayurveda treats infections by balancing body energies and using natural herbs to reduce inflammation and blockages.
Ayurveda recommends a light and nutritious diet, with warm soups and plenty of liquids to promote milk flow and ease inflammation.
Yes, high stress levels lower your immunity to infections like Mastitis
Mastitis can cause a breast abscess, which may need surgery if untreated.
Ayurveda suggests regular use of supportive herbs and a balanced lifestyle to maintain milk flow and prevent blockages.
