What should you know about ways to prevent mastitis?

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast that can occur when milk is not draining comfortably or when nipple damage allows irritation. Prevention focuses on a good latch, avoiding pressure on the breast, and responding early to fullness or feeding problems. It can still happen despite careful care.

A shallow latch can cause painful breastfeeding and damage the nipple, making feeds less effective. Tight bras, prolonged pressure, or abruptly changing feeding patterns may also contribute to blocked areas and inflammation. Breast pain, warmth, swelling, or a tender wedge-shaped area can be warning signs.

A lactation consultant can watch a feed, check positioning, and help with expressing or pumping only as much as needed. Over-pumping to empty the breast can increase stimulation and may worsen swelling for some people.

Feed responsively and let your baby finish when possible; avoid routinely delaying feeds. Vary positions so pressure is not always placed on one area, and make sure clothing and bra straps are not tight. Treat cracked nipples gently, wash hands before expressing, and use cool packs for comfort if the breast feels inflamed. Ask for a lactation consultation if latch pain, frequent fullness, or repeated episodes continue.

Contact a clinician promptly if breast pain or redness is worsening, you feel feverish or unwell, or symptoms do not begin to improve with supportive care. Seek urgent help for severe illness, confusion, breathing difficulty, or rapidly spreading redness. Medical advice can distinguish inflammation from an abscess or another cause of breast pain.

Ask: Is my baby latching deeply enough? Should I change feeding or pumping frequency? How should I care for nipple damage? When would medicine or an examination be needed?