Jenna Dewan Shares Her Top Tips for Surviving Mastitis

For many moms, whether they are breastfeeding or not, mastitis – an inflammation of breast tissue – can appear suddenly. Symptoms like breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness, often accompanied by fever and flu-like symptoms, can quickly become difficult to manage. While mastitis warrants a visit to the doctor, managing the pain often falls on the individual.

Such was the case for celebrity actress, dancer and new mom Jenna Dewan. After welcoming her third child, The Rookie actress was diagnosed with mastitis and struggled to manage her painful symptoms. Like many other moms, she turned to her community for support. After receiving numerous recommendations from lactation specialists, doctors, and fellow moms, Dewan finally found some relief. And thankfully, she’s not gatekeeping her secrets to success.

In an Instagram post made on August 5, the Step Up star outlined her experience and the remedies that worked best for her. “Now that I’ve survived mastitis I can confidently say… mamas I FEEL you. The number of times I googled ‘will I ever feel better,’” she captioned a photo of herself with thinly sliced potatoes on her breasts to reduce swelling. “All of your suggestions were amazing, thank you! What an experience to show how powerful and supportive we can all be for each other.”

Below, Dewan listed the remedies that worked for her, including:

• Cold compresses, cabbage, and thinly sliced potatoes after feeds (to treat inflammation)
• Hot epsom salt baths to help with shaking (that part was honestly wild)
• Castor oil on breasts with a warm compress over it
• Probiotics twice a day
• Vitamin C and E three times a day
• Homeopathic remedies like hepar sulfur and phytolacca, rotated throughout the day
• Medication, such as ibuprofen and antibiotics
• Nursing and pumping
• Rest (even little naps helped)

From holistic to clinical remedies, Dewan’s list includes treatments that have been used for centuries to alleviate pain. Affordable options like cabbage and thinly sliced potatoes are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while medications like ibuprofen and antibiotics are well-known for their effectiveness.

In the comments of her post, parents and experts thanked Dewan for sharing her story and sympathized with a struggle that affects up 40 percent of women. “Oh friend it is the worst! Put me in the ER. I FEEL YOU,” wrote Amanda Kloots. “I’ve been hit by car and can confidently say mastitis was worse. Glad you feel better,” joked another mom.

If you are experiencing pain, swelling, and fever, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor. Want to learn more about mastitis? Check out these tips for preventing and treating mastitis.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.