Bacterial mastitis treatment and recovery

Mastitis is inflammation of breast tissue; bacterial mastitis occurs when infection is part of that process. It can present with a hot, red or swollen area, breast pain and a flu-like unwell feeling. A clinician decides whether antibiotics are needed from the history and examination. The medicine chosen may depend on allergies, previous antibiotics, local prescribing guidance and whether a breast abscess is suspected. A tender lump that becomes more defined or does not improve may need ultrasound assessment.

Take the antibiotic exactly as prescribed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes it. Continue breastfeeding if comfortable, or express enough for comfort when direct feeding is difficult; abrupt over-pumping can worsen swelling. Feed according to your baby's cues rather than trying to force the breast empty. A cool pack wrapped in cloth can ease swelling, and a supportive, non-restrictive bra may reduce discomfort. Check with a pharmacist or clinician which pain medicine is suitable for you, particularly if you have allergies, stomach, kidney or liver problems.

Seek urgent care if you feel severely unwell, become confused or faint, have difficulty breathing, cannot keep fluids down, or develop rapidly spreading redness. Contact the treating clinician promptly when fever or breast symptoms worsen after antibiotics begin, when there is pus or bloody fluid, or when a painful swelling feels soft in the centre. These features can signal an abscess or infection needing a different treatment. Report any medicine reaction, especially facial swelling, breathing difficulty or a widespread blistering rash, as an emergency.

Ask how soon your symptoms should start settling, which changes warrant an earlier review and whether a milk or fluid sample is needed if treatment does not work. Confirm that prescribed medicines suit breastfeeding and your medical history. If latch pain, nipple damage, oversupply or repeated blocked areas are contributing, request feeding assessment from a lactation professional who can observe a feed and suggest gentle adjustments.