The mother sometimes suffers severely from these troubles, which if not controlled, may produce serious derangement and severe suffering.

Taken in the commencement, a few doses of Bryonia, two drops, or twelve globules, in a tumbler half full of water, a spoonful every two hours, will generally be sufficient. Should, however, considerable fever set in, and the breasts be swollen, painful, and very tender, Aconite and Belladonna may be alternated, two hours apart; warm cloths also may be applied, or Stramonium leaves be placed over the breasts. Should gathering or suppuration commence, indicated by hard swelling and throbbing pain, Hepar and Silicea, may be given in alternation, a powder, six hours apart, followed if necessary after two days, by Mercury and Lachesis, at the same intervals, until the abscess breaks. When the suppuration has pretty well advanced, poultices of bread and milk, slippery elm, or flax-seed may be applied. If the pain is very severe, the poultice may be dusted over with powdered Opium. After the abscess has opened, give a powder of Sulphur every night.