What should you know about early mastitis symptoms?

Mastitis is inflammation in breast tissue. It may begin as a wedge-shaped or localised area that feels firm, hot, sore or unusually full. The skin can look red, and feeding or touching the breast may hurt. Some people develop chills, body aches, tiredness or a feverish feeling as inflammation increases.

Painful breastfeeding can also result from an attachment problem, nipple damage or another breast condition, so breast pain alone does not establish mastitis. A clinician can assess the breast, ask about feeding and decide whether infection or another cause needs treatment. Symptoms that are worsening or not settling deserve review.

Rest, drink to thirst and continue normal breastfeeding or expressing if you can do so comfortably; sudden stopping may worsen breast fullness. Use a cool pack wrapped in cloth for comfort and wear a supportive, non-tight bra. Avoid deep massage, forceful pumping and oils or creams that irritate the skin. A lactation consultation can help check positioning and milk removal without adding trauma.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly if you feel feverish, have chills, worsening redness or pain, pus or blood in the milk, or a lump that is becoming more tender. Seek urgent care for severe weakness, confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty or rapidly spreading redness. Do not delay assessment because you are breastfeeding.

Could this be mastitis, a blocked area, nipple injury or an abscess? Ask how to continue feeding, whether you need a lactation assessment, which pain relief is suitable, and when to return if symptoms do not improve.