What are the treatment options for breast abscess?

A breast abscess is a pocket of infected fluid in breast tissue. It may cause a painful lump, warmth, redness, swelling, fever, or feeling unwell. A clinician examines the breast and may arrange a breast ultrasound to locate fluid and distinguish an abscess from inflammation or another lump.

Breastfeeding people can develop an abscess, but it can also occur outside breastfeeding. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, breastfeeding, medicines, allergies, and any recent nipple or breast procedure.

Drainage removes infected fluid and is often guided by ultrasound. A needle may be used, or a small opening may be made when the collection needs another approach. Fluid can be sent for testing, and a dressing or temporary drain may be needed.

Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed and use simple pain relief only if it is suitable for you. Keep the dressing clean, attend follow-up, and report a lump or redness that is not improving. Breast abscess drainage and breast ultrasound are separate parts of care that your clinician may recommend.

Seek same-day medical care for a hot, red, painful breast with fever, rapidly increasing swelling, pus, or feeling faint or very unwell. Urgent assessment is also needed if symptoms worsen after antibiotics or drainage. Do not squeeze or repeatedly massage a painful lump while waiting for review.

Ask whether ultrasound is needed, how the collection will be drained, whether a sample will be tested, whether breastfeeding can continue, how to care for the wound, and when the breast should be rechecked.