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Nia’s Painful Breast

Breast Anatomy, Lactation, and Mastitis

By Jenna Ridlen, Sharifah Albraiki , Sarah Ellis, Jocelyn A. Moore, Anusree Mukherjee 

Nia’s Painful Breast


 

Abstract

This interrupted case study follows first-time mother “Nia” as she initiates breastfeeding. Nia develops hyperlactation, breast tenderness, and fever. Her OB/Gyn diagnoses mastitis, and Nia starts antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. During follow-up with a lactation consultant, Nia is instructed on how to correct her oversupply. Mastitis treatment and lactation support allow Nia to meet infant nutrition guidelines and her own breastfeeding goals. This case study allows students to review mammary gland development and anatomy, the neurohormonal positive feedback loop of lactation, normal lactation initiation, and the pathophysiology and treatment of mastitis. Several detailed illustrations are included in an optional PowerPoint presentation. This case study was initially developed for undergraduate sophomore-level anatomy and physiology students but is broadly applicable. Students will likely encounter lactation either personally or as a friend, partner, family member, health professional, or other caregiver. Our case study was created to uplift and celebrate women’s health and is perfect for presentation in August, which is World Breastfeeding Month.

   

Date Posted

07/29/2024

Overview

Objectives

  • Describe the anatomy of the mammary gland.
  • Describe the changes that occur in the mammary gland throughout the lifespan.
  • Understand the hormones involved in lactogenesis.
  • Describe the positive feedback loop of lactation.
  • Describe the difference between colostrum, transitional, and mature milk.
  • Explain the pathophysiology of mastitis.
  • Infer how the treatment modalities of mastitis address the underlying pathophysiology.

Keywords

Mastitis; pregnancy; breast; postpartum; lactation; mammary gland; positive feedback loop; prolactin; oxytocin; infant nutrition; breastfeeding; women’s health

  

Subject Headings

Anatomy
Biology (General)
Medicine (General)
Nursing
Physiology
Public Health
Science (General)

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division, Clinical education

  

FORMAT

PDF, PPTX

   

TOPICAL AREAS

Social issues, Women in science

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Interrupted, Flipped

 

 

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