tips for avoiding mastitis?

[phdlifeneedsanewlife]

Ds's feeding is all over the place atm due to teething and starting solids - as a result I've been engorged twice in past couple of days and right boob is now very tender with I think a hard patch.

Tried expressing in a very hot shower last night; had to express (using pump) at 3am because it was too sore. All the usual 'jets' are firing, doesn't appear to be a blocked duct. But he skipped his morning feed and now my breast is getting more sore the longer he sleeps and I really don't need another case of mastitis. Is there anything else I can do to avoid it?

Make sure you are in as good health as possible. Try and rest and eat well. Easier said than done but it really makes a difference as to whether any blockages/cracks get bacterial infections.

I've had it six times with this baby. Each times was when I was really run down, there were lots of times when I had lumps/blocked ducts etc where it didn't develop.

Hope you feel better.

try feeding in different positions - sitting, lying down, the rugby hold. Also gently massage your breasts towards the nipple whild bfing or expressing.
Also make sure you are getting plenty of rest and good food, as I got mastitis when I was run down.
HTH. Mastitis is horrible.

thanks, had it once already and yes, it is horrible.

now all we have to do is persuade ds there are other ways to feed than lying down...

Also make sure your bra is comfy. When I got mastitis, I'm sure my tight bra didn't help.