What should you know about mare mastitis?

Mastitis often affects one breast and may develop after milk flow becomes difficult or breast tissue is irritated. The breast may feel firm, hot, swollen, or painful, and the skin can look red. Fever, chills, aches, and marked tiredness can occur.

Breast pain alone does not prove mastitis; blocked ducts, nipple injury, engorgement, and other breast conditions can overlap. A painful feeding position or shallow latch can add nipple and breast trauma.

Continue breastfeeding or expressing milk according to comfort, but avoid forceful massage or trying to empty the breast repeatedly. Rest, drink to thirst, use cool packs, and take a suitable pain reliever if your clinician says it is safe. Check latch and positioning with a [Lactation Consultation](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/lactation-consultation/).

If symptoms are worsening, severe, or not improving, arrange clinical review. Antibiotics may be needed when bacterial infection is suspected, and a collection of pus may require drainage.

Contact a clinician promptly for fever, spreading redness, worsening swelling, severe pain, or feeling unwell. Seek urgent assessment for a rapidly enlarging lump, pus, faintness, or signs of serious illness.

Do not delay review if symptoms persist despite supportive care. Related information includes [Breast Pain](/symptoms/breast-pain/) and [Painful Breastfeeding](/symptoms/painful-breastfeeding/).

Ask whether your symptoms suggest inflammation, infection, or an abscess; whether you can continue feeding; which pain relief is suitable; and when you should return if the breast does not improve.