Mastitis
Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue that most commonly affects breastfeeding women, often involving an infection. It causes breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness, sometimes accompanied by fever and chills.
Overview
Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue that most commonly affects breastfeeding women, often involving an infection. It causes breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness, sometimes accompanied by fever and chills.
Symptoms
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Causes
- •Blocked milk duct
- •Bacteria entering the breast through skin cracks or nipple pores
- •Milk stasis (milk remaining in the breast for too long)
Risk factors
- •Sore or cracked nipples
- •Infrequent feedings or incomplete breast emptying
- •Tight-fitting bras that restrict milk flow
- •Previous history of mastitis
- •Poor infant positioning or latch during breastfeeding
How it progresses
3 stages- OnsetSymptoms appear, often triggered by a known cause.Often missed
- Active phaseSymptoms peak; self-care or short treatment usually helps.
- ResolutionSymptoms ease over days to weeks with proper care.
How it's diagnosed
- •Physical examination of the breast
- •Review of symptoms and breastfeeding history
- •Breast milk culture (in recurring or severe cases)
- •Ultrasound (to check for an abscess)
Treatment options
General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.
- •A course of oral antibiotics to clear infection
- •Over-the-counter pain relievers (NSAIDs)
- •Continued breastfeeding or expression of milk
- •Adjusting breastfeeding techniques with a lactation consultant
- •Emptying the breast frequently through feeding or pumping
- •Applying warm compresses before feeding
- •Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest
- •Gently massaging the affected area while feeding
Complications
- •Reduced quality of life
- •Worsening symptoms over time
- •Recurrence of mastitis
Prevention
- •Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- •See a clinician for routine check-ups
When to seek help
- •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
- •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
- •New or worsening symptoms appear
- •Concerning changes related to mastitis
- High fever that does not improve after 24 hours of treatment
- A hard, painful lump that does not go away after emptying the breast
- Red streaks spreading from the affected area
- Pus or blood draining from the nipple
In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Real-world questions
- ›Can Mastitis cause headaches?
- ›Is Mastitis reversible?
- ›How quickly does Mastitis progress?
- ›Is Mastitis hereditary?
- ›Can Mastitis be prevented?
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Frequently asked questions
Possible causes of Mastitis include Blocked milk duct, Bacteria entering the breast through skin cracks or nipple pores, Milk stasis (milk remaining in the breast for too long).
Mastitis is generally moderate, but severity can vary. Seek care if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.
Some milder cases may improve with rest and self-care. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.
Sources
Information based on general medical references such as:
Last reviewed: May 2026