Good-Bye Mastitis Misery
How Probiotics Could be The Key to Easing Symptoms and Help You Enjoy Your
Breastfeeding Journey Again
Written by: Nicole Salter, RN, IBCLC
Who are the experts?
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) is an international organization of physicians dedicated to the promotion, protection, and support of breastfeeding.
One of the areas of research that the ABM focuses on is the use of probiotics for the treatment of mastitis.
What is mastitis?
Mastitis is a common condition among breastfeeding women that is characterized by inflammation of the breast tissue, often accompanied by pain, swelling, and redness.
How can probiotics help?
Probiotics have been studied as a complementary treatment for mastitis. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, provide a health benefit by restoring the balance of bacteria in the body.
The ABM recommends the use of certain strains of probiotics for the treatment of mastitis. Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus salivarius are two probiotic strains that have been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of mastitis and improving the overall health of breastfeeding women.
A study published in the Journal of Women's Health found that women who received Lactobacillus fermentum had a significant reduction in the severity of mastitis symptoms, including pain, swelling, and redness. Another study published in the Journal of Human Lactation found that women who received Lactobacillus salivarius had a shorter duration of mastitis symptoms compared to women who did not receive the probiotic.
So which probiotics are best?
Overall, the ABM recommends the use of Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus salivarius in consultation with a healthcare provider for the treatment of mastitis. In some cases they will be taken in combination with antibiotics.
I think I have mastitis. What should I do?
If you are concerned that you may have mastitis, contact your healthcare provider for treatment and connect with a consultant at Thrive Lactation & Wellness to manage your symptoms and develop a plan to help prevent future occurrences.
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