Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast that can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, or redness. It may also lead to fever, chills, and in more severe cases, pus formation inside the breast.
This condition most often develops from a bacterial infection in breastfeeding women due to milk buildup, which allows bacteria to multiply. However, mastitis can also occur in men, usually when there are nipple injuries.
If you suspect you may have mastitis, you are advised to contact your family doctor or OBGYN for assessment and diagnosis. The doctor may prescribe medications or surgical interventions to treat this condition.
Symptoms of mastitis
Common symptoms of mastitis include:
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Breast pain
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Swelling in the affected area
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Hardening of part of the breast
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Warm skin over the affected area
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Redness of the skin
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Fever above 100.4ºF (38ºC)
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Chills
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General malaise
If mastitis is not treated, it may progress to a breast abscess, which is a pocket of pus that increases the risk of a widespread infection.
If mastitis is suspected, it is very important to go to the hospital or a healthcare clinic promptly to confirm the diagnosis and start the right treatment.
How to confirm the diagnosis
A doctor can diagnose mastitis by evaluating symptoms and reviewing medical history. If an abscess is suspected, a breast ultrasound may be recommended.
In cases of severe infection, nipple pus discharge, or lack of improvement with antibiotics, the doctor may request a breast milk test or analysis of nipple discharge to check for bacteria.
Since mastitis can sometimes resemble breast cancer, additional tests like a mammogram or biopsy may also be needed.
Main causes
Mastitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection that affects the milk ducts. During breastfeeding, it often happens when milk builds up in the breast, which promotes bacterial growth. In some cases, mastitis may occur without a clear cause.
The risk of mastitis during breastfeeding is higher when nipples are cracked or sore, when breasts are not emptied fully, or in situations involving stress, lack of sleep, or wearing tight bras. It is most common in the first weeks after delivery.
In women who are not breastfeeding and in men, mastitis may be linked to nipple wounds, trauma, smoking, diabetes, or obesity.
Treatment for mastitis
The treatment that is typically recommended for mastitis includes:
1. Home care
Home care measures that may help relieve mastitis include:
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Drinking about 2 liters (around 8 cups) of fluids daily, such as water, teas, or coconut water
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Applying cold compresses to reduce pain and swelling
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Gently massaging the affected area with circular motions
When mastitis occurs during breastfeeding, the doctor may also recommend:
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Using warm compresses before nursing or pumping
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Making sure the baby latches properly for efficient milk flow
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Allowing the baby to fully empty one breast before offering the other
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Breastfeeding on demand to prevent excess milk buildup
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Wearing a supportive, comfortable bra
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Massaging the breasts gently before feeding to encourage milk flow
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Pumping or expressing milk as directed by the doctor, with care to avoid injury
Breastfeeding usually does not need to be stopped in cases of mastitis, unless pus is coming from the nipple. Continuing to breastfeed can help prevent further milk buildup and bacterial growth.
2. Medication
Doctors may prescribe pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen, to reduce pain and inflammation.
If a bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics are often recommended.
3. Natural options
Soy or sunflower lecithin supplements may help reduce inflammation and improve milk flow in some cases of mastitis.
Probiotics containing Limosilactobacillus fermentum or Ligilactobacillus salivarius may also be considered in some situations.
These options, however, should not replace medications prescribed by the doctor. In cases of infection, antibiotics are essential.
4. Surgery
Surgery may be needed when mastitis leads to the formation of a breast abscess. In these cases, the abscess is usually drained.
After drainage, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication to relieve pain, reduce discomfort, and prevent further infection.
How to prevent mastitis
To reduce the risk of mastitis while breastfeeding, it is important to:
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Empty the breast completely at each feeding
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Allow the baby to finish nursing on one side before offering the other, alternating breasts at the next feeding
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Change breastfeeding positions to ensure milk drains from all parts of the breast
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Position the baby correctly, with the mouth at nipple level
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Avoid tight clothing, choosing supportive but non-restrictive bras
It is also important to treat nipple wounds or cracks promptly to prevent bacteria from entering and causing mastitis.