Recurring mastitis?

[*beannaithe*]

I think lecithin is supposed to be good for helping to prevent blocked ducts? Can get it from the health food shop

[AnyDream]

Try this trick: get your significant other to support your breast by holding the side opposite to where the lump is, and then use your own hand to massage towards the nipple, either while bub is feeding or you gently hand express. That extra bit of pressure from the other side of the breast seems to clear the lumps a little easier. Another tip is to position baby so their bottom jaw is on the side where the lump is. Failing that, ultrasound sounds like it would help too.

Re lack of supportive GP: ring the Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 mum 2 mum (1800 686 268). You will get a supportive voice at the other end with helpful tips and they might be able to give you some ideas on how to access ultrasound treatment.

Finally: if the lump keeps coming back, with or without other mastitis symptoms, you need to follow it up with your GP. A persistent lump is sometimes exactly that: a breast lump, and if that's the case it needs to be checked out thoroughly.

[Arcadia]

You don't need a referral. Just call a local physio and ask if they have ultrasound, then go and tell them you need it on your boob (then watch their expression lol). They might have to look up intensity levels but mine found it easily on the internet which confirmed my GP recommendation.

My blocked duct was from when I had unclipped my bra and the fabric was still under the breast. I had to literally take my whole bra off to feed for a while until i cleared the blockage.

[little_O]

I second removing the bra for a feed. I found that when I wore the bra it would either still block the breast being fed from, or be too tight on the other breast at let down and cause problems.

Are you in SA? I can recommend a fantastic female physio who specializes in women's health and she treated me for mastitis and blocked ducts.