I have not BF for over a week now. We slowed down slowly to where I was only feeding once every second or third day and even then I didn't have much milk. My breasts feel soft and I cannot feel any lumps in them but the left one is very painfull to touch. There is no fever, no redness, no lumps etc. What should I do?
Is there one particular area that is sore? I would see a physiotherapist for some ultrasound treatment on that area. And also take some ibuprofen to reduce the inflammation and pain.
Try expressing a bit in the shower and see if that makes it feel any better too - but be gentle.
It might be early mastitis. Given that you've stopped feeding it is a possibility. Is the nipple at all red? You might find you get an area of redness over the next day or you might get flu like symptoms. I'd be keeping an eye on it and going to the drs to get it check if it gets any worse if i was you, mastitis is nasty.
The best thing to clear it out would be to feed her, but if you feel that's going to set back your weaning and a once-off won't work for her, try expressing. Taking an anti-inflammatory (like ibuprofen) will help with both the pain and the cause. I'd also use ice packs to reduce the inflammation. If you start to feel sick, take yourself to your GP. It's more than likely you have a deep blocked duct. I had mastitis numerous times and most of the time had no apparent blockage to feel. Some ducts are quite deep.
My left break hurt for weeks after weaning and it has slowly gone away. I didn't have any other symptoms either. If you are still worried maybe a trip to the doctors would help. I hope it goes away quickly for you.
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