Mastitis and itchy breasts: what to know

Mastitis is inflammation of breast tissue, often during breastfeeding. The skin may feel tight, hot or sensitive over the affected area. Itching is not the defining feature, so a rash, cracked nipple, contact irritation or another skin condition should also be considered. A breast lump is a common presentation of mastitis, but a lump can have several causes.

Continue feeding or expressing milk as comfortably advised, and avoid forceful massage or sudden stopping. Rest, drink fluids and use a cool compress for swelling. Check whether a new soap, cream, breast pad or detergent touches the skin. A lactation consultation can help assess attachment and milk removal; see Breast Pain and Painful Breastfeeding for related symptoms.

Arrange medical advice promptly if redness spreads, pain intensifies, a firm area enlarges, fever or chills develop, or you feel markedly unwell. Seek urgent help for confusion, faintness, breathing difficulty or rapidly worsening illness. Persistent itching, nipple scaling, discharge or skin changes also deserve an examination.

Could the itch be from mastitis, nipple irritation or a skin condition? Do I need an examination or treatment? How should I feed or express while symptoms settle?