WOMEN'S WELLNESS
MASTITIS & BREASTFEEDING

Breast engorgement, a common discomfort occurring 2-5 days post-delivery, is the result of milk production. While it typically resolves within 12-48 hours, prolonged swelling can compress milk ducts, hindering milk flow and causing breast tissue hardening, making feeding difficult for the baby.

Blocked ducts are another issue, arising when milk flow is obstructed, leading to milk "setting" and duct blockage. This can result in swollen tissue and the formation of a painful lump.

Mastitis, an inflammation of breast tissue, often follows blocked ducts. The buildup of milk behind the blockage can trigger an inflammatory response, sometimes with accompanying infection or fever. Untreated symptoms can lead to feverishness and general malaise within 24-48 hours, necessitating immediate physiotherapy intervention to clear ducts and address inflammation.

WHEN CAN PHYSIOTHERAPY HELP?

• Seek physiotherapy if you experience:

• Breast hardness or pain

• Palpable lumps in the breast

• Redness and warmth in the breast

• Feverishness or feeling unwell

• Sudden milk supply decrease

• Physiotherapy offers immediate relief for these symptoms.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR PHYSIOTHERAPIST?