How can I help my friend? (Or should I zip my lip, sit on my hands, and mind my own business?)

[PrettyCandles]

My friend breastfed her dc2 for 2y, and had 3 bouts of mastitis during the first months/year.

She now has a 3rd dc, 5w, bfing was going marvelously, the baby regained birthweight within a week and is thriving. However she has just got mastitis and is considering giving up completely as she can't face going through repeated bouts again.

She has done so well, but I know what she is like - if she stops now, in a few months' time she will be beating herself up over it.

What can I do to help her?

I would say what you've told us: that you understand her reasons for wanting to give up but will she be able to cope with the guilt of giving up esp. as she bf her other 2.

I've never had mastitis so hard for me to judge though. Perhaps someone who's had it will be along to comment...

Listen to her, chat to her but ultimately it is her choice. Just be supportive whatever she chooses.

Maybe ask how she would feel further down the line if she gave up. Is she upset? Might this be a tricky thing to ask at the moment? Oof, it's a tough one.

I won't love her any the less for giving up bfing, but I do so want to help her keep going. Of course I will support her in whatever she chooses.

Is there anything she can do to try to avoid mastitis?

Best thing to do is to signpost her to some expert bf support -preferably local and face-ro-face if there is any, or if not by phone. Then just be her friend -i.e. provide flapjack, do small things to help her generally and be sympathetic. National bf helpline is 0870 20 909 20.

I did, but she says she doesn't want to go to it - feels it's too much trouble and would make her feel uncomfortable about her choice.