Medicine for mastitis while breastfeeding

Mastitis is inflammation in breast tissue. It can cause a tender, hot or swollen area, breast pain, feeling unwell and sometimes fever. A blocked or poorly draining area, nipple damage or an infection may contribute, and these problems can overlap. The right medicine therefore cannot be selected safely from the word mastitis alone.

A clinician may ask when symptoms began, examine the breast and review how your baby latches and feeds. Some cases improve with supportive care, while suspected bacterial infection may need a prescribed antibiotic. Do not use leftover antibiotics or stop a prescribed course without discussing it with the prescriber.

Continue breastfeeding or expressing if you can and it is comfortable, because sudden stopping can worsen milk stasis. Feed responsively, avoid forceful deep massage, wear a supportive but non-tight bra and use cool packs for discomfort. Rest, drink to thirst and use a pain reliever only if it is suitable for you and compatible with your health history.

Check whether your baby is attaching deeply and whether the breast is being emptied comfortably. A [Lactation Consultation](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/lactation-consultation/) can help address latch, positioning and nipple trauma. [Breast Pain](/symptoms/breast-pain/) and [Painful Breastfeeding](/symptoms/painful-breastfeeding/) can help you describe related symptoms.

Contact a clinician promptly for worsening pain, spreading redness, fever, marked swelling, pus or feeling increasingly unwell. Seek urgent assessment if you are faint, confused, unable to keep fluids down or have severe rapidly worsening symptoms. A persistent lump or symptoms that do not improve also need review, even if you are breastfeeding.

Could this be inflammation, infection or an abscess? Is the medicine compatible with breastfeeding? What should I do if symptoms worsen or fail to improve? Do I need a breast examination or feeding assessment?