nappy, nappies, diapers, nappy information service, AHPMA

Dr Colin Michie

Colin A. Michie MA.FRCPCH.FLS Consultant Senior Lecturer in Paediatrics

Dr Colin Michie qualified from Oxford in 1983, and has trained as a paediatrician with a special interest in infectious diseases. For some 10 years he has been involved in investigations into the effects of bacterial toxins.

He currently works in Ealing Hospital NHS Trust and has specialist clinics and laboratory groups in Guys Hospital and Imperial College.

'Information and guidance on this site is brought to you by Dr Colin Michie, who is expressing his own independent views. Dr Michie cannot enter into personal communication, if you have concerns about your child's health, contact your own G.P. or other health professional.'

Mastitis'- Dr Colin Michie looks at one of the most common breastfeeding problems.

Initial symptoms are breast tenderness, local inflammation and a reduction in milk output. If you think you may be developing mastitis you should visit your health visitor or doctor for advice and treatment if necessary.

Around 5 - 33% of breastfeeding mothers will experience mastitis at some point, although this most commonly occurs during the first three months. On rare occasions, mastitis can also develop on weaning. Some mothers may suffer recurrent mastitis, both with one infant and/or in successive pregnancies. Trained breast feeding advisors and midwives can help to avoid the risk of mastitis, by giving advice on feeding and expressing of breast milk.

Other factors in the development of mastitis can include frequency of feeds, wearing of a tight bra and also personal hygiene. Mastitis and breast abscesses are preventable in almost all situations. Exclusive demand breastfeeding can help to reduce the risk. Correct positioning of your baby and ensuring he or she is latched on properly can prevent mastitis. It is important to feed first from one side until the breast is empty and then switch to the other side to finish the feed. The second breast may still feel full when your baby finishes feeding, in which case remember to feed from this side initially next time.

Your doctor, midwife or breast feeding councillor will also be happy to help you overcome initial feeding problems and give advice where needed. If mastitis occurs it is important to continue feeding from both breasts.If this does not work, your doctor may need to prescribe appropriate antibiotics and painkillers if necessary.