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Ask for help if you do not feel better within 24 hours of trying these tips, or if you have a fever or your symptoms worsen. You can see both a lactation consultant and your doctor since you might need an antibiotic. If you have a breast infection in which both breasts look affected, or if there is pus or blood in the milk, red streaks near the area, or your symptoms came on severely and suddenly, see your doctor right away. Even if you need an antibiotic, continuing to breastfeed during treatment is best for both you and your baby.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Women's Health
- You can help relieve soreness and speed healing by applying heat to the sore area. You can use a heating pad or a small hot-water bottle. Cabbage leaves should not be used for a plugged duct. It also helps to massage the area, starting behind the sore spot. Use your fingers in a circular motion and massage toward the nipple.
- Breastfeed often on the affected side. This helps loosen the plug, keeps the milk moving freely, and keeps the breast from becoming overly full. Breastfeeding every two hours, both day and night on the affected side first, can be helpful.
- Getting extra sleep or relaxing with your feet up can help speed healing. Often a plugged duct or breast infection is the first sign that a mother is doing too much and becoming overly tired.
- Wear a well-fitting supportive bra that is not too tight, since this can constrict milk ducts.
Ask for help if you do not feel better within 24 hours of trying these tips, or if you have a fever or your symptoms worsen. You can see both a lactation consultant and your doctor since you might need an antibiotic. If you have a breast infection in which both breasts look affected, or if there is pus or blood in the milk, red streaks near the area, or your symptoms came on severely and suddenly, see your doctor right away. Even if you need an antibiotic, continuing to breastfeed during treatment is best for both you and your baby.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Women's Health
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Date Added: 2009-04-20 Views : 125