Question

The patient suddenly developed a fever of 38°C five days after giving birth, with breast pain but no milk supply. At this time, the patient took Chaihu Injection and Yanlie Xiao Capsules and wants to inquire if breastfeeding can still be continued? If it is necessary to discontinue, how long after taking the medication should breastfeeding be resumed?

Answer

It is recommended to temporarily stop breastfeeding and undergo a routine blood test, considering the symptoms that may be caused by mastitis. Oral cephalosporin antibiotics can be considered for treatment, and the breasts should be kept clean and dry. Pain can be relieved by massaging and cold compressing the breasts, and a breast pump can be used to extract milk clots to prevent milk stasis. It is advised to avoid smoking, spicy, or irritating foods, and to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, especially fibrous vegetables like cabbage, chives, and celery, to maintain smooth bowel movements. Consider resuming breastfeeding after the body temperature returns to normal and three days have passed.