Overview
Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue that sometimes involves infection. It most often affects people who are breastfeeding, usually in the early weeks, when milk does not drain well or bacteria enter through the nipple. It causes a painful, red, swollen area of the breast and often flu-like symptoms. It can also, less commonly, occur in those who are not breastfeeding.
Symptoms
- A painful, warm, swollen area of the breast
- Redness of the skin, often wedge-shaped
- Breast tenderness
- Fever and chills
- Aches and feeling generally unwell
- A hard lump or thickening in the breast
Causes & risk factors
- Blocked milk duct or milk that is not fully drained during breastfeeding
- Bacteria entering through a cracked or sore nipple
- Infrequent feeding or sudden changes in feeding pattern
- Pressure on the breast from tight clothing
Treatment & self-care
Care focuses on keeping milk flowing (for those breastfeeding), rest, fluids, and comfort measures, with a clinician deciding whether an infection needs additional treatment. Most people can continue breastfeeding, which helps recovery. A doctor should review symptoms that are severe or not improving, as an untreated infection can develop into an abscess.
See a doctor urgently if
- Symptoms do not improve within 24 hours or are getting worse
- You have a high fever or feel very unwell
- You feel a firm, very painful lump that may indicate an abscess
- Symptoms occur and you are not breastfeeding
- There is pus, or any nipple discharge that is bloody or unusual