6. Supplemental Information
Supplemental Information
Following are some common breastfeeding related conditions. If you experience
any of these symptoms, contact a healthcare professional or breastfeeding
specialist.
Engorgement
Blocked/Plugged
Ducts
Mastitis
A Healthcare Professional or Breastfeeding Specialist can give you guidance in breastfeeding
your baby and using a breastpump. Their guidance is valuable in terms of the lifetime of health
benefits for both you and your baby. A listing of Lactation Professionals are available at www.
medelalocator.com or call 1-800-TELL-YOU (1-800-835-5968).
If you have not resolved the problem with your breastpump or your have further
questions, please contact Medela Customer Service at 1-800-435-8316 or
email customer.service@medela.com.
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Symptom
Breasts are hard and uncomfortable,
possibly with reddened areas.
Area of breast will look reddened and may
be tender to touch.
It often follows on from engorgement
but can just occur suddenly. The initial
symptoms are similar to flu – fatigue,
headache and muscle aches, fever and
localized breast tenderness. It can be in one
or even both breasts and needs immediate
treatment.
Potential Causes
Milk not draining properly from
breast. Milk can drain back
into the tissue causing areas to
swell and become tender.
Milk not being drained from
a specific duct. The area
becomes 'clogged' up and
milk is then prevented from
flowing.
A bacterial infection in the
breast tissue which is often
accompanied by cracked
nipples.