This blog was medically reviewed by Hussain Ali, MD, MPH, obstetrician-gynecologist at Allina Health.
Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue that can lead to an infection, often affecting those who are breastfeeding. Recognizing the signs of mastitis can help you spot it early and get the right care.
A mastitis infection can start from a clogged milk duct or break of the nipple skin – which can often happen from breastfeeding over time. Get your answers about what causes mastitis, symptoms to look out for, prevention tips and treatment in this comprehensive guide.
For expert guidance on managing mastitis and supporting your breastfeeding journey, connect with a trusted provider at The Mother Baby Center.
What is mastitis?
Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissues that, if left untreated, can get worse and turn into a breast infection. Anyone can get mastitis, but it does most commonly affect those who are breastfeeding. Mastitis can be painful, leading some parents to consider weaning early. However, with early recognition and prompt treatment, you can continue your breastfeeding journey comfortably.
What does mastitis look like?
Visible symptoms of mastitis typically include redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the breast. And what does mastitis feel like? The affected area may feel hard or lumpy and can be quite painful. It is essential to monitor these symptoms, as a severe case of mastitis can progress to an infection. If you observe pus or worsening symptoms, seek medical attention promptly to ensure appropriate treatment.
What causes mastitis?
Mastitis is often caused by clogged milk ducts or cracked nipples – which is why breastfeeding or having a history of mastitis can increase the risk of getting the infection. Breast implants can also increase a woman’s risk of mastitis as the implants can increase the risk of bacterial infections.
Clogged milk ducts can lead to engorgement of the breast due to the oversupply of milk and cause it to feel full and swollen. Cracked or sore nipples can cause mastitis by giving germs from the surrounding skin or the baby’s mouth a way to enter the milk ducts and cause an infection.
Can mastitis cause breast cancer?
Mastitis itself does not increase the risk of breast cancer. However, it is vital to seek medical attention for any unusual breast changes. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing both conditions effectively.
Signs of mastitis
Early signs of mastitis can include engorgement of the breasts and swollen, tender breasts that may feel warm to the touch. See below for other common symptoms of mastitis.
- Breast pain is a common symptom that can show up when breastfeeding.
- Hard lumps on breasts.
- Skin redness on your breasts.
- Feeling ill or having flu-like symptoms.
If you suspect that you have mastitis, it is important to talk to your health care provider about mastitis treatments. Treating mastitis will benefit both you and your baby by making breastfeeding a more enjoyable experience.
If you’re dealing with mastitis while breastfeeding, find a trusted provider at The Mother Baby Center for the support you need.
How to prevent mastitis
Knowing how to prevent mastitis is key to a comfortable breastfeeding experience. Below are some prevention tips for nursing parents.
- Ensure frequent breastfeeding or pumping to avoid engorgement and maintain milk flow.
- Proper latch techniques can prevent nipple damage, reducing the risk of infection. If you have nipple abnormalities like accessory nipples or inverted nipples, it is important to talk to your provider during a prenatal visit about how to address breastfeeding, as these abnormalities can lead to poor latch. Infant oral cavity abnormalities should also be addressed during the hospital stay to ensure proper latching for breastfeeding.
- Regularly change breastfeeding positions to ensure all ducts are emptied evenly.
- Hygiene is crucial. Wash hands before breastfeeding and keep nipples clean and dry. If and when cleaning nipples, it is important to air dry them and avoid drying pads, excessive moisture and irritating cleaners.
Whether it’s preventing nipple damage or getting your baby to latch correctly, our lactation consultants are always ready to help and answer questions from nursing parents about how to avoid mastitis.
How to treat mastitis
Treating mastitis involves a combination of at-home remedies and professional medical care. If you’re not sure about how to treat mastitis, keep reading for tips from our experts.
- Nursing parents should rest and ensure the affected breast is emptied frequently through breastfeeding or pumping.
- Applying warm compresses and massaging the breast area can help alleviate discomfort and encourage milk flow.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers may also reduce symptoms. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, antibiotics may be necessary. Consult a health care provider to receive the appropriate treatment and avoid complications.
How long does mastitis last?
If you’ve never had mastitis before or if this is your first time hearing about it, you might be wondering, “How long does mastitis last?” The good news is that it typically only lasts a few days to a week. With the appropriate treatment, most nursing parents experience relief within 48 hours. Factors such as early intervention and proper self-care, including frequent breastfeeding or pumping, warm compresses, and rest, can make for a quicker recovery.
Does mastitis go away on its own?
Mastitis sometimes goes away on its own, but it is not recommended to let mastitis resolve on its own. Failure to address mastitis can lead to the development of a breast abscess, a condition where the milk ducts are clogged, causing the buildup of pus in the breasts and requiring draining via surgery. Seeking medical intervention helps ensure proper treatment, reduces the severity of symptoms, and prevents complications, promoting a healthier breastfeeding experience for you and your little one.
When to go to the hospital for mastitis
If you experience severe symptoms such as a high fever, intense pain, or signs of an abscess, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention for mastitis. These symptoms may indicate a serious infection requiring professional care to prevent complications.
Can you breastfeed with mastitis?
Yes, you can and should continue breastfeeding even when experiencing mastitis. Breastfeeding helps to keep the milk flowing and can aid in the quicker resolution of the infection. While it may be painful, frequent emptying of the affected breast is crucial to prevent further blockage and complications.
Find breastfeeding and lactation support at The Mother Baby Center
To ensure a smooth and healthy breastfeeding journey, understanding and addressing mastitis is essential. Preventative measures such as proper latch techniques, maintaining hygiene, and frequent breastfeeding can help avoid the infection. Should mastitis occur, quick intervention with at-home remedies and professional care can help prevent more serious complications from happening.
For personalized guidance and support, our team of lactation consultants at The Mother Baby Center offers comprehensive services to assist nursing parents in overcoming challenges and achieving a rewarding breastfeeding experience.