to all mommies, i have a breastfeeding question. fever and chills....plz help.?

ugh! I had this happen. Because my hormones were so crazy...I still have hot flashes and everything and it felt like I was still pregnant! My doctor and lactation consultant told me this happens to some people. Now, I have been breastfeeding 7 weeks, no more hot flashes, but my breasts are sore as if I am on my period. They never feel "good". Don't worry, there are a lot of hormones rolling around...hope you feel better soon.

Also, make sure that you check for discharge from your nipples. I had an infection my first week bf'ing....it cleared up right away. I had felt chills and pain when nursing (in my shoulders). The doctor gave me some antibiotics, and everything was fine.

My hot flashes went away around week 4-5ish.

I felt feverish when I started breastfeeding too...I was dizzy sometimes, had no appetite, and it came and went just like you described. I never did find out what it was....I'm assuming just the body and hormones returning to normal after being so out of whack. Keep drinking fluids as much as possible...especially when you're beginning breastfeeding, your body can't be hydrated enough.

That being said, there's no telling what's actually going on...it could be nothing, it could be mastitis like other people suggested, so definitely follow up with your doctor. The good news is, no matter what it is (for the most part), the reccommendation should be to keep breastfeeding. Mastitis? Keep breastfeeding. Fever/virus? Keep breastfeeding (as your body fights whatever it is, you pass the antibodies to baby through your milk so baby is less likely to get whatever you have).

Good luck, and congratulations!

i got mastitis when i was bf my daughter. my symptoms were fever, chills, and just feeling lousy. I was given antibiotics for it and was told to continue to nurse her because it'll help clear the infection out. the advice nurse also said use a warm compress on my affected breast to help with the pain.

if you don't have any breast pain, then i'm really not sure what the problem could be.

It sounds like there is a good chance that you have a breast infection.It is very serious. You need to call your doctor's office (OBGYN) and at least talk to a nurse and tell her what is going on. If your breast(s) has any redness or pain or red streaks around it, it is not good at all. I don't think you should be having fever. At least call and maybe go to the doctor again.

If your breast hurts then it might be mastitis. An infection in your breast from a blocked mammary gland. All you can do is just keep feeding baby to clear the blocked gland.... but the problem is if you have taken antibiotics...they are not good for baby- they kill the good bacterial flora. Only take them if you need to.

follow up with your specialist, drink plenty of water, and talk to your lactation consultant. wash your hands better.