Breast abscess when feeding FB second time round??

[fragglema]

Does anyone know anyone who has breastfed a second child after having had a breast abscess when feeding their first? I am really worried about any increase in risk of mastitis/abscess as it was such a horrible experience first time round and so am thinking about bottle feeding instead. If anyone has any info/experiences, please let me know.

[Elasticwoman]

I know that an abscess is horrible; sorry you had to experience that. I've not had one, but I did have mastitis every time. I was advised (I think by a bf counsellor) that one breast did not drain very well if I fed the normal way, so I had to feed "rugby ball style".

You probably need medical advice from some one properly qualified, but it might be worth asking why you got the abscess. It can be the result of improperly treating mastitis, but not always.

I suggest you contact one of the bf organisations (or several of them!). You will get information and they won't try to make your mind up for you. La Leche League, NCT, Breastfeeding Network, Association of Breastfeeding Mothers etc.

[Piffle]

I had mastitis 8 times in first 4 mths with ds1 with abscess ( surgically drained) and continued to feed til 16 mths
have had 2 more since and no mastitis or anything.
difference would be better bras and better knowledge of draining boobs properly.

[fragglema]

Thanks for the advice. Piffle - I havent come across anyone who had an abscess before, so its good to hear you didnt have the problem back a second/third time. Have you any tips for what did you did second time? Did you get extra help from anyone?