Blocked milk ducts and mastitis

Not every sore or firm area becomes bacterial mastitis. Worsening systemic symptoms or spreading redness deserve prompt clinical advice because antibiotics are appropriate for some cases.

Duct narrowing and surrounding swelling may cause a focused tender area and slower milk flow. Mastitis presents with breast pain and a larger region of redness, heat or swelling; some people also feel suddenly unwell.

Inflammation may be present without bacterial infection, and symptoms can overlap. A clinician uses the pattern, progression and general illness to decide whether supportive care is enough or whether treatment for infection is needed.

Keep breastfeeding or expressing according to your baby's usual needs if you can. Extra pumping, deep kneading and forceful attempts to clear a plug can increase swelling. Apply a cool compress, rest, drink to thirst and avoid tight clothing over the sore area.

Ask a clinician or pharmacist which pain relief is suitable for you, especially if you have allergies, stomach or kidney problems, take blood-thinning medicine, or have another medical condition. A lactation consultation can address attachment, oversupply and pumping technique.

Seek same-day medical advice if you have fever, chills, marked weakness, rapidly increasing pain, or redness and swelling that are spreading. Also call if symptoms are not beginning to improve with gentle supportive care.

Urgent assessment is needed if you feel faint, confused, short of breath or severely unwell. A persistent, increasingly painful swelling or a soft fluid-like centre can suggest an abscess, which may need imaging and drainage.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest inflammatory or bacterial mastitis, whether antibiotics are needed, and when improvement should be noticeable. If episodes recur, discuss milk oversupply, nipple injury, pump cleaning and whether milk culture or imaging is warranted.