pain and tenderness in breast, think it's mastitis

[kitkat9]

don't know what I should do...started feeling a bit flu-like yesterday but those symptoms have gone, more or less - now it's just the pain that's a nightmare.

my breast looks pink and tender, and it's hot. It's agony to feed ds with. I've tried warm baths, massaging it etc but can't pinpoint where the blockage is. I had this before with ds1 and dd and remember managing to unblock it myself, but this time it's the whole area that feels sore.

Any advice? The thought of feeding on the sore side fills me with horror - I can barely let my clothes touch it never mind hard little gums!

It definately sounds like mastitis I had it with my dd and It needed a quick trip to the dr for some antibiotics. I'd go to see your dr as soon as you can, Its no good suffering when you don't have to.

Mastitis can go one of two ways, one needing antibiotics, one going away on its own, I've had both! The first was as you described, like a bad dose of flu, hot and cold, shivers, couldn't really get out of bed for 24 hours, I needed antibiotics and it sorted it out very fast. The second was just incredibly sore so I got antibiotics incase the flu symptoms came too but it went on its own after about 24-48 hours of pain. I would get the antibiotics anyway and if it persist start them, I think this type will not go away on its own.
To my shame, my GP also suggest I wear a more supportive bra to stop it happening again!! Bugger of a job getting a supportive maternity bra but mine was spectacularly grey and gruesome when I went but I was beyond caring . Hope you get is sorted soon, it is horrible.

Ouch! That sounds horrid.

The Breastfeeding Network's leaflet is here and has really good suggestions.

Feeding from that side really is the best thing to do and usually the quickest way to drain it effectively. Yes, it does hurt, but once it starts to clear the burning is almost a 'good' pain, in my experience. Ibuprofen and paracetamol can help make it more bearable.

You could call the national bf helpline in the morning for more support: 0844 20 909 20.