Friday, October 19, 2007

Oh the Pain...

I was supposed to spend yesterday driving "I'm FOR 1" yard signs around to people all over the valley. I didn't. And today I slept on the couch while Mashuga watched a movie.

You see, I'm fighting off a bout of mastitis. I can't believe that I've nursed four children for a total of 6 1/2 years and have never had mastitis.

I now understand why women who have multiple occurrences of mastitis stop breastfeeding early.

This sucks.

7 comments:

Madam Crunchypants said...

Ugh! One of my girlfriends swears by bruised cabbage leaves when she gets mastitis (which is regularly). You just don't want to leave them on too long because it also helps reduce engorgement which could backfire and deplete your milk supply.

Emily said...

i'm so sorry heather! i've never breastfed, and really have no idea what mastitis is, but it sounds horrible! you'll be in my thoughts for it to be gone ASAP!

Sarah Jean said...

All about mastitis. Simply, it's a breast infection, and I hear it's just awful, especially because it always strikes breastfeeding mothers, who are breastfeeding a little one and often taking care of other kids too. *comfort Heather* Take it easy this weekend. Lay in bed lots. Drink until you're drowning. We love you.

Melzie said...

OOooooWWiiiiieeee

Had it once, it did suck.

Anonymous said...

Hang in there Heather! I have nursed for 6 years and had mastitis about 10 times. It is rotten, but it is also a message that maybe you are doing too much. Rest, nurse a lot and drink and eat a lot. And whatever you do, don't stop nursing, at least not now. I second the cabbage thing, and there is also a great homeopathic for it. Also I think there is some connection between yeast and mastitis--take probiotics, reduce sugar and that should help re-balance your internal flora. Good luck! Hope it is all better by now.
Cheers
Kristin

Liz said...

I've had mastitis, too. I nursed all three of my kids, and I got it once with each of the last two. I didn't try the cabbage. Is it supposed to be topical? I hope you get better soon. Sending good vibes your way.

Rynell said...

Ohhh! I am so very, very sorry! I have had mastitis several times, while nursing each of my three kids. (And once, even while not lactating.) Antibiotics fixed it. And I did learn some preemptive measures as well. I hope you are feeling better soon.