Mastitis during puberty

Mastitis can cause a warm, swollen, tender, or reddened area of breast tissue. Fever and feeling generally unwell can occur. During puberty, breast buds and changing hormones commonly cause sensitivity, while infection, skin irritation, injury, or an abscess can also produce symptoms. A clinician may examine the breast and nearby lymph nodes and decide whether imaging or treatment is needed. Mastitis is not limited to people who are breastfeeding.

Arrange a medical review if redness, warmth, swelling, or pain persists, spreads, or returns. Wear comfortable support, avoid squeezing the area, and use a cool or warm compress according to which feels better. Take medicine only as directed for the young person’s age and health. If breastfeeding is part of the situation, a lactation consultation can check positioning, milk drainage, and nipple injury; do not stop or change feeding suddenly without advice.

Seek same-day medical advice for fever with a hot, painful breast, rapidly spreading redness, pus or bloody discharge, or feeling very unwell. Urgent assessment is needed for a soft or fluctuant lump, severe pain, red streaking, or symptoms that worsen despite initial care. A new hard fixed lump or skin or nipple change also needs examination, even though many breast changes in young people are benign.

Ask whether the symptoms fit inflammation, infection, a blocked duct, or another breast problem; whether an antibiotic or imaging is needed; and what improvement should look like. Ask how to manage feeding or pumping if breastfeeding is involved.