Milk malaria, also known as mastitis, is an annoying problem that many mothers face during breastfeeding. Midwife Kübra Kulalar from Mamajoo shares her knowledge on how mothers can get through this difficult process.
Mastitis is known as breast inflammation and affects approximately 20% of breastfeeding women. It usually presents with symptoms such as pain, fever and breast redness, which can make breastfeeding difficult. Midwife Kübra Kulalar from Mamajoo emphasizes that an important step to prevent this problem is to express milk during non-breastfeeding periods. Stating that 20 percent of women experience mastitis in the first 2 months, Kulalar states that regular milking can prevent congestion in the breasts and help mothers get through this difficult process more easily.
“If frequent breastfeeding is not possible, gradual electronic breast pumps should be used.”
Midwife Kübra Kulalar said that the first rule to avoid mastitis is to empty the breast with frequent breastfeeding and said, “Mastitis is a disease that mostly occurs with milk accumulation in the breast. Therefore, it is very important to ensure the emptying of the breast by breastfeeding the baby frequently, especially in the first weeks. Because after birth, the breast suddenly fills with milk. If the mother is not prepared for this or does not know that this is a normal process, she will experience panic. At this point, massaging with circular movements while the baby is breastfeeding will facilitate the flow of milk and also open blockages. If the baby has difficulty latching on or cannot breastfeed frequently because the mother is working, it is necessary to use gradual breast pump machines. “Expressing milk and relaxing the breast with these machines will prevent mastitis.”
“Products that help ensure breast hygiene should be used.”
Stating that the breast is constantly moist and open to bacteria during the breastfeeding period, Kübra Kulalar said, “Hygiene is even more important during this period. In cases where breastfeeding is not performed, it is necessary to put ultra-absorbent breast pads in underwear. These pads protect the mother’s breast hygienically and prevent milk from leaking onto the clothes. In addition, pads that prevent moisture formation play an important role in preventing mastitis. In addition, nipple protectors and breast shields are among the must-use products. Nipple protectors, which protect sensitive or cracked nipples, especially when you have mastitis, help you breastfeed your baby easily if you do not stop breastfeeding and when the nipple problems disappear. Breast shields are also placed inside the underwear to protect problematic nipples from friction. Breast shields, which allow sore or cracked nipples to heal quickly thanks to air circulation, also help ensure hygiene.”
