Moms who get mastitis say they “feel like they have been hit by a truck.”

Moms feel so lousy that they want relief fast!

 It may sound crazy, but applying cabbage leaves to the affected breast can help with the pain and swelling.

While the exact reason it helps is not known, women have been using this practice for centuries and there’s been research to support its use. (Source)

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How to Use Cabbage Leaves for Relief of Engorgement

• Green cabbage seems to work better than red cabbage, and it won't stain your clothes. I am not sure why this is, but it has been the case in my experience. I also have seen green cabbage recommended over red in other sources. 

• Chilling the leaves seems to make the treatment more effective, and the cold leaves are soothing to the inflamed breast.

• Rinse the cabbage leaves thoroughly. This minimizes the risk of bacteria that is occasionally found on fresh produce.

• Crush the leaves. This makes it easier to mold to the breast.

• Cover the breast with the leaves.

• Leave the nipple exposed.

• Wear a bra or tank top to hold them in place.

• Leave them on until they wilt, which is usually 20-30 minutes.

• You can reapply fresh leaves for up to one hour of continuous application. Longer periods of continuous use have resulted in decreased milk supply for some moms. 

• Take a break for at least a couple of hours before reapplying.

Finally, it’s crucial to keep the milk moving. The milk is not harmful to the baby. Continue breastfeeding regularly and pumping as needed. If breastfeeding is too uncomfortable, then a mom should pump regularly.

Many moms also find relief from mastitis by using warm compresses on their breasts.

We love THESE because you can use them both warm (to help improve milk flow and treat mastitis) or cold if you need pain relief for any reason. Bonus - they’re under $10!

If you’re one of the unlucky mamas who have to deal with mastitis during your breastfeeding journey, you now know that applying cabbage leaves can help!

Note: Most cases of mastitis require antibiotics. Once antibiotics have been started, it usually takes 24-48 hours for a mom to feel better. If the infection does not resolve, there is the risk that it can turn into an abscess. That would require a surgical procedure to drain it.

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