Any nursing mother would agree, Mastitis is the WORST! The fever and the pain, I think I may have PTSD because I cringe every time I even think about it. Mastitis is usually brought on by a few things: an ill fitting bra, cracked or bleeding nipples, exhaustion, or skipped feedings and not fully emptied breasts that lead to plugged ducts. For whatever reason, I was plagued with Mastitis from the onset of nursing my first baby. It then seemed that I was fighting a vicious cycle of recurrent plugged ducts.
I tried everything: meeting with lactation consultants, changing my bra, nursing in different positions, being sure to nurse until empty, and any other suggestion I could find as I scoured the internet. Finally I found my answer: LECITHIN.
Lecithin can supposedly decrease the viscosity or “stickiness” of the milk by increasing the percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the milk. Translation: it helps keep the milk flowing.
Lecithin can be found naturally in soybeans, peanuts, meat, whole grains, and milk. It is also available in supplement form. I followed Kellymoms dosage recommendations.
And guess what? It worked! Whenever I could feel a plugged duct starting, I would begin taking a Lecithin supplement and never got Mastitis again for the duration of my nursing journey.
Happy Nursing, Mamas!
*Note: please consult a doctor of lactation consultant before taking this, or any other supplements.