Which action is considered safe for a nursing mother who is diagnosed with mastitis?

Continuing to nurse from both breasts is considered the safest action for a nursing mother diagnosed with mastitis. Breastfeeding helps to clear the infection by promoting regular milk flow, which reduces the risk of milk stasis and buildup that could exacerbate the infection. Nursing from both breasts during this condition ensures that the infant receives adequate nutrition while also promoting overall breast health.

This approach also has several benefits, including maintaining the mother’s milk supply and minimizing the discomfort caused by engorgement. Moreover, breastfeeding can help to deliver antibodies and other beneficial factors through the milk, which can assist the baby’s immune system.

In contrast, nursing only from the infected breast could limit the baby’s nutrition and might be insufficient to address the underlying issue. Bottle feeding or stopping breastfeeding entirely would not only hinder the natural healing process but could also lead to complications related to milk supply and breast health. Taking a proactive stance by nursing both breasts is the recommended practice for helping the mother recover from mastitis while ensuring her infant continues to benefit from breastfeeding.