Improving care for women with mastitis
“I have had my visit and I am still in my bed”
For breastfeeding women, mastitis symptoms usually start with a painful area in one breast. It may be red or warm to the touch, and women may also have fever, chills and body aches.
“Having mastitis means that you not only feel unwell, but you have a young baby to look after,” explains Dr. Jo Watson, Chair of the Breastfeeding Centre of Excellence and Adult Nurse Practitioner in Sunnybrook’s Breastfeeding Clinic. “Early assessment and treatment is key to protecting breastfeeding and preventing complications, but it can be challenging for women to seek treatment in a timely manner.”
Mastitis may be caused by breast engorgement or plugged milk ducts, as well as a breast infection from cracked or damaged nipples which allow germs to enter the breast. Signs that mastitis is getting worse include swollen, painful lymph nodes in the armpit next to the infected breast, a fast heart rate, and flu-like symptoms that get worse. If left untreated, mastitis can lead to a breast abscess, which may require IV antibiotics and possible surgery.
Sunnybrook identified that some patients with mastitis found it difficult to seek care.
“We listened to our patients and responded by piloting an internet-based video communication assessment so that patients could be seen in the comfort of their own home,” says Dr. Watson.
Working closely with the hospital’s Privacy Officer and using an application called VSee©, the pilot project has allowed NP, Dr Watson, to conduct clinic visits using video technology for assessment and diagnosis. Women were provided with information on the type of computer needed (one with video camera capacity) and details on how to easily log onto the program.
“Women have been overwhelmingly positive about this convenient approach to care,” says Dr. Watson. “There is no travel time, so care is responsive to patients’ needs. Women are seen within a few hours of contacting the clinic, which means they can stay at home while they’re feeling unwell, and still get care that they need. The best feedback we received was one woman saying, ‘I have had my visit and I am still in my bed!’”
The pilot has been so successful, Nurse Practitioner online visits will continue to be offered as a unique approach to care through Sunnybrook’s Breastfeeding Clinic.
Information for patients
You are more likely to get mastitis while breastfeeding if:
- You delay or skip breastfeeding or pumping sessions. When you don't empty the breasts regularly or completely, your breasts can become engorged (too full) which can lead to mastitis.
- You have cracked or irritated nipples. Be sure to get tips on proper latching.
