Features of feeding with lactostasis
Stagnation of milk caused by blockage of the excretory ducts of the mammary glands is called lactostasis. The condition is accompanied by redness of the gland, pain and an increase in local temperature. This material will tell about the causes, methods of treatment and how to properly feed with lactostasis. Possible complications and preventive measures will also be described in the article.
Causes of lactostasis:- infrequent attachment of the child to the breast;
- rejection of feeding;
- improper application of the baby;
- anatomical features;
- frequent pumping;
- hypothermia, stress;
- mechanical chest injuries;
- tight bra.
Provocative factors - flat nipples, sleeping on the stomach. In addition, doctors claim that lactostasis most often develops in women with large breasts. Since the lower parts of the mammary gland sag, there is an irregular outflow of milk.
Important: lactostasis is not dangerous for both the child and the woman herself. However, without timely response, the condition can provoke a number of serious complications, including mastitis. Treatment of the latter is carried out exclusively under the supervision of a doctor with the use of antibiotics!
Main symptoms
An early manifestation of lactostasis is discomfort in the chest and a feeling of heaviness. Palpation of the breast reveals small lumps.
Characteristic symptoms:
- local increase in temperature;
- pain and redness of the mammary gland;
- uneven expression of milk.
Feeding with lactostasis cannot be stopped under any circumstances! Use the special form on our website https://dobrobut.com/ and get an expert's answer to your questions.
Diagnostics
A doctor's consultation is necessary if unpleasant sensations in the chest do not pass within two days. After the examination and history taking, the doctor will prescribe additional examinations (instrumental and laboratory), based on the results of which treatment of lactostasis will be prescribed.
Additional diagnostic methods include:
- general analysis of blood and urine;
- blood biochemistry;
- mammography.
It is extremely important to differentiate lactostasis from mastitis. If the doctor suspects infectious mastitis, a specific diagnosis will be prescribed followed by medical treatment.
Is lactostasis dangerous for a child
Doctors recommend putting the baby to the breast as often as possible, because the baby will help normalize the outflow from the mammary glands more effectively than any other method. Taking into account the fact that at first it will be difficult for the baby to suck milk, the woman needs to express a small amount, and then put the baby. You should not endure temporary periods - feed the baby according to his wishes. And remember that milk with lactostasis is not dangerous for a child. You can get specific recommendations for feeding your baby in such a situation during a consultation with a pediatrician.
Treatment of lactostasis
Drug therapy for lactostasis is not prescribed. The doctor will recommend changing the feeding regime (put the baby to the breast every two hours), use ointments in case of pain (individual selection) and teach basic massage techniques. In addition, a woman should limit her fluid intake.
The role of physiotherapy in the treatment of lactostasis. Physiotherapy procedures are used as additional therapy after consulting a doctor. Recommended ultrasound, magnetotherapy, light therapy. Two or three sessions are enough to achieve the desired result.
Recipes of folk medicine. In this case, it is recommended to apply a cabbage leaf to the chest for three to four hours. First, the sheet should be washed and cut in several places. You can also use infusion of chamomile and calendula, honey cake and baked onions.
If you have any questions, make an appointment for a personal appointment. The doctor will tell you about the possible consequences of feeding with lactostasis and the prevention of this condition.
Prevention
As a preventive measure, doctors recommend following the following rules:
- put the baby to the breast more often, especially in the first months;
- alternate different positions when feeding;
- wear a comfortable bra;
- avoid excessive physical exertion and stress;
- rest and eat well;
- control the amount of liquid drunk;
- avoid sleeping on your stomach;
- to pump in a timely manner.
Listen to the recommendations that will help prevent the development of lactostasis. And also, at the first signs of stagnation in the mammary glands, seek the advice of a specialist who will help resolve the situation and tell you whether lactostasis is dangerous for the child. Do not try to "break" the stagnation yourself by intensively kneading or squeezing the chest. This will only intensify the process and can provoke inflammation. Make an appointment and get qualified help. Registration by phone or online.
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