Mastitis treatment today: what to know

Mastitis is inflammation of breast tissue, often during breastfeeding. It may cause a tender or firm area, warmth, redness, swelling, and flu-like symptoms. Painful Breastfeeding can contribute when a shallow latch or awkward positioning repeatedly irritates the nipple and breast. Symptoms may improve with supportive care, but bacterial infection can sometimes develop and require prescription treatment. A painful breast does not by itself establish an infection, and breast pain can have other causes.

Continue breastfeeding or expressing in a comfortable way if you can; abrupt stopping can worsen fullness. Feed responsively, avoid forceful massage and aggressive pumping, and use a cool pack wrapped in cloth for swelling. Rest, drink to thirst, wear a comfortable supportive bra, and use a pain reliever only if it is suitable for you and compatible with your clinician’s advice. Check latch and positioning with a Lactation Consultation, particularly when nipple damage or repeated blocked areas are present.

Contact a clinician promptly if you have fever, feel increasingly unwell, redness that is spreading, severe pain, pus-like discharge, or a lump that becomes more defined or does not settle. Seek urgent help for confusion, collapse, severe weakness, or trouble breathing. If symptoms are not improving with home measures over a short period, assessment can determine whether antibiotics, imaging, or drainage is needed. Breast Pain can provide further symptom context.

Does this look like inflammation, infection, a blocked area, or an abscess? How should I feed or express while it settles? Is my pain relief suitable, and what changes mean I need a same-day review?