15613 Mastitis

Overview

Mastitis is a condition that causes breast tissue to become swollen, warm, and often painful. It is most commonly caused by a blocked milk duct or an infection. It mainly affects people who are breastfeeding, but it can also happen in women who are not breastfeeding and, rarely, in men.

Yes. Mastitis is quite common in breastfeeding mothers. About 1 in 5 breastfeeding women may experience it at some point.

Mastitis most often affects women during the first six months of breastfeeding. However, it can also affect women who are not breastfeeding and, rarely, men. Anyone with breast tissue can develop mastitis if a blocked duct or infection occurs.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain or tenderness in one breast
• A swollen, hard area in the breast
• Redness and warmth on the breast skin
• A burning feeling in the breast
• Fever, chills, and a general unwell feeling
• Nipple discharge or a cracked nipple

Symptoms in children

• Mastitis is very rare in children. If it happens, a child may have a red, swollen, sore breast and a fever.
• Newborn babies can sometimes have a small breast lump due to normal hormones, but true mastitis is rare.

Symptoms in older adults

• In older adults, mastitis may appear as breast pain, redness, and a tender lump. Fever may be less obvious.
• Sometimes, a condition similar to mastitis can be a sign of other breast changes, so it is important to get it checked.

Causes

Main causes

• Milk standing still in the breast (milk stasis), often because the baby is not draining the breast well
• Bacteria entering the breast through a cracked or sore nipple, especially from the baby's mouth
• A blocked milk duct that becomes infected

Risk factors

• Breastfeeding, especially if the latch or feeding routine is not ideal
• Cracked or sore nipples
• A weakened immune system or stress
• Smoking
• Wearing a tight bra or pressure on the breast

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a high fever or chills and your breast feels hot, red, and painful
• If you have symptoms of mastitis and the breast area is getting worse quickly
• If you have any signs that suggest an abscess, like a painful, hard lump

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have mild breast pain or a red area that does not improve with home care within a day
• If you have been treated for mastitis but symptoms return or are not getting better

Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and examine your breast. Mastitis is usually diagnosed by the typical signs and your medical history. No special test is usually needed.

Tests that may be done

• A breast ultrasound if the symptoms do not improve or if an abscess is suspected
• A sample of breast milk to find the bacteria, in some cases
• A breast biopsy if there is a lump that does not go away and the provider wants to rule out other causes

What to expect at your appointment

The appointment will likely include questions about breastfeeding, any recent nipple damage, and your overall health. The provider may gently press on the breast to feel for lumps or tenderness. If an abscess is possible, you may be referred for imaging.

Treatment

Treatment for mastitis depends on whether it is caused by a blocked duct or an infection. Self-care is the first step. If symptoms are not better in 12–24 hours, or if fever is present, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic that is safe while breastfeeding. You can also take simple pain relief, but always ask your pharmacist or doctor first.

Self-care at home

• Keep feeding your baby or expressing milk from the affected breast regularly, as long as it is not too painful
• Use a warm compress or take a warm shower before feeding to help milk flow
• Gently massage the breast toward the nipple while feeding
• Place a cold pack or cool cloth after feeding to reduce swelling
• Drink plenty of fluids and get rest

Medical treatments

If infection is suspected, a doctor will usually prescribe an antibiotic. It is important to finish the full course, even if you feel better. Your doctor may also recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever, but always check what is safe for you, especially if you are breastfeeding. Do not take any medication without checking with a pharmacist or doctor.

When is surgery considered?

If an abscess (a collection of pus) develops, it may need to be drained. This is usually done with a needle and ultrasound guidance, or sometimes with a small incision. Surgery is rarely needed for mastitis alone.

Living with this condition

While recovering from mastitis, rest as much as possible. Keep up with breastfeeding or expressing to help clear the affected breast. It may hurt at first, but emptying the breast often helps healing. If feeding on the painful side is too much, express by hand or a pump. Wear a comfortable, supportive bra.

Lifestyle tips

• Continue breastfeeding if you are able, but take breaks when you need to
• Use warm compresses before feeds and cool compresses after
• Avoid tight clothing or bra underwire that presses on the breast
• Sleep on the other side, and avoid pressure on the sore breast

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fluids. Light exercise is fine once you feel up to it, but rest is more important. There is no special 'anti-mastitis diet' that cures the condition, but staying hydrated supports your immune system.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Mastitis can be painful and may make breastfeeding stressful. It is normal to feel anxious, frustrated, or tearful. Talk to your partner, friends, or a healthcare professional. If you feel that your mood is low, remember that this is temporary and treatment helps. If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or feel unable to cope, reach out to your doctor, a mental health crisis line, or go to your nearest emergency department immediately.

Prevention

You can lower your risk of mastitis by breastfeeding effectively, making sure the baby latches well, and emptying the breast regularly. Treat cracked nipples early. Avoid long gaps between feeds, and do not suddenly wean abruptly. Keep your immune system strong with rest and good nutrition.

Complications

If left untreated

• An infected blocked duct can turn into an abscess, which is a painful collection of pus
• The infection can spread and cause a more serious illness called sepsis
• Ongoing pain and difficulty feeding, which may affect your relationship with breastfeeding

Long-term outlook

With early treatment, most people recover from mastitis within a few days. Antibiotics usually work well, and the vast majority of women can continue breastfeeding. If you develop an abscess, it can be drained and will heal. Mastitis does not increase your risk of breast cancer. Most importantly, with the right help, you will feel better.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.