Mastitis Treatment During Breastfeeding

Mastitis is inflammation in breast tissue. It may cause a tender, warm, swollen area, redness, a firm patch, or a burning sensation, and some people develop fever, chills, or body aches. Milk stasis, pressure, nipple injury, or an infection can contribute. Breast pain and painful breastfeeding are related symptoms, but they do not by themselves show whether mastitis is inflammatory or infectious.

Continue breastfeeding or expressing as your clinician advises; abrupt stopping can worsen pressure. Feed responsively, check that the baby attaches comfortably, and use gentle handling rather than deep massage or forceful squeezing. Rest, drink to thirst, and use a cool pack between feeds for swelling. A clinician may recommend compatible pain relief and, when bacterial infection is suspected, prescribe an antibiotic. A lactation consultation can help correct latch, positioning, or pumping problems that keep symptoms going.

Arrange prompt medical review if you have fever, rapidly worsening redness or swelling, severe pain, pus, or feel increasingly unwell. Seek reassessment if symptoms are not improving or a lump remains, because an abscess may need drainage. Emergency help is appropriate for fainting, confusion, breathing difficulty, or severe weakness.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest inflammation, infection, or an abscess; which pain medicines are suitable while feeding; how to continue milk removal; and when you should expect improvement or return for review.