What should you know about neonatal mastitis treatment?

Newborns can have temporary breast swelling from hormones passed during pregnancy. Mastitis is different: the breast may become red, warm, swollen, tender, or produce discharge, and the baby may seem unwell. Infection can involve the skin and deeper breast tissue, so do not squeeze the breast or try to drain it at home.

A clinician will examine the breast and check the baby’s temperature, feeding, alertness, and general appearance. Tests or hospital observation may be recommended when infection is suspected or the baby appears ill.

Treatment depends on the examination. Suspected bacterial infection is commonly treated with prescribed antibiotics, given by mouth or through a vein when the baby needs closer care. The clinician may review the baby after treatment begins to check that redness, swelling, tenderness, and discharge are settling.

Keep the area clean and dry, continue feeds as advised, and give only medicines specifically prescribed for the newborn. A lactation consultation can help if feeding is uncomfortable or if you need practical support.

Arrange urgent medical assessment for a newborn with a red or swollen breast, pus or bloody discharge, fever, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness, vomiting, breathing difficulty, or fewer wet nappies. Seek emergency help if the baby is difficult to wake, looks very unwell, or has rapidly spreading redness.

Ask whether the findings fit normal newborn breast swelling or mastitis, whether antibiotics are needed, how the medicine should be given, when the baby should be reviewed, and which changes should prompt immediate return.