What is recommended for managing congestive mastitis if the patient wishes to continue breastfeeding?

For managing congestive mastitis in a breastfeeding individual who wishes to continue nursing, manual emptying of the breast after each feed is crucial. This approach helps in relieving the fullness and pressure caused by engorgement, which is a common issue that can lead to mastitis if not addressed.

Manual emptying encourages effective milk removal and can help prevent further complications such as infection. Ensuring that the breast is adequately emptied after each feeding promotes milk flow and aids in maintaining milk production. This method is not only beneficial for the mother but also supports the infant’s feeding needs.

The other options do not align with the goal of continuing breastfeeding. Stopping breastfeeding immediately would disrupt the feeding routine and could worsen the condition by increasing engorgement. While cold compresses and analgesics can be useful for symptom relief, they do not address the underlying issue of milk accumulation. Avoiding all forms of stimulation can lead to further engorgement and is counterproductive to the lactation process. Thus, manual emptying remains the most effective strategy for managing congestive mastitis while allowing the continuation of breastfeeding.