What to know about mastitis

Milk build-up, pressure on the breast, nipple damage, or changes in feeding can contribute to inflammation. The affected area may feel firm, hot, and painful, and symptoms can appear quickly. Infection can occur alongside inflammation, but not every painful breast is infected. Mastitis can happen without breastfeeding too, so a new or persistent breast change deserves assessment. A breast abscess is a pocket of infection that may cause a persistent lump and needs medical care.

Continue breastfeeding or expressing only as needed for comfort, unless a clinician advises otherwise; abrupt stopping can worsen milk stasis. Rest, drink fluids, use a cold pack wrapped in cloth, and wear a supportive bra that does not compress the breast. Check positioning and attachment if feeding hurts. Avoid forceful massage or excessive pumping, which can increase swelling. A lactation consultant can help correct feeding mechanics and protect the nipple.

Contact a clinician if symptoms are severe, you feel feverish or faint, redness is spreading, or you are not improving with supportive measures. Seek urgent assessment for a rapidly enlarging painful lump, pus, red streaking, confusion, or difficulty keeping fluids down. A clinician may examine the breast, prescribe treatment when appropriate, and check for an abscess or another cause.

Could this be inflammation, infection, or an abscess? Should I change feeding or expressing? What signs mean I need reassessment?