What should you know about fibrocystic mastitis?

Mastitis means inflammation of breast tissue. Fibrocystic tissue can feel nodular or tender, while inflammation may cause local pain, warmth, swelling or redness. Mastitis can occur during breastfeeding, but it is not limited to that setting. A blocked milk duct, irritation, infection or another breast problem may produce similar symptoms.

The combination of a lump and inflammation should not be diagnosed by touch alone. A clinician may ask about feeding, recent injury, nipple changes and how quickly symptoms developed before deciding whether examination, treatment or imaging is needed.

Rest, drink fluids and use comfortable breast support. During breastfeeding, continue feeding or expressing in a way that feels manageable, avoid forceful massage, and ask a [Lactation Consultation](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/lactation-consultation/) service about positioning and milk removal. Pain relief may be suitable for some people, but check the label or ask a clinician if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking other medicines.

Information about [Breast Pain](/symptoms/breast-pain/) and [Painful Breastfeeding](/symptoms/painful-breastfeeding/) can help you describe symptoms at an appointment.

Seek prompt medical review if redness spreads, pain is worsening, you develop fever or chills, pus-like discharge, or a tender area does not improve. Urgent assessment is appropriate if you feel faint, very unwell or rapidly deteriorate. A persistent lump after inflammation settles also needs review.

Ask what may be driving the inflammation, whether infection is suspected, how to feed or express safely, and when improvement should begin. Ask what to do if the lump remains after treatment or if symptoms return.