Mastitis

General Information

The definition of mastitis is inflammation of the breast associated with breastfeeding or milk expression. It can occur any time with lactation, during weaning or soon afterwards.

Breast infection occurs with inadequate or infrequent milk removal, or both. Common signs and symptoms may include lumps in breast tissue, breast tenderness with or without reddening of skin, and some mothers may experience fever and/or chills, similar to the flu. Symptoms typically begin with a firm knotty area in one or more parts of the breast that becomes tender to the touch, but can occur in both breasts. The area(s) often turn red and become very painful to the touch. However, if infection is deep within the breast, along the chest wall, there may not be any visible skin reddening.

Recovery from a breast infection should always include anti-inflammatory medication, regular thorough milk removal and cold compresses to help relieve pain, along with adequate rest. Antibiotics are no longer recommended and neither is breast massage, by hand or with vibrating breast therapy products or warm compresses. With stubborn or recurrent cases of mastitis, Ultrasound breast therapy may be used whenever available, and only under skilled care and supervision.

It is also important to determine the underlying cause for inflammation, mastitis/breast infection, to avoid recurrence. Seeking the support of a knowledgeable and experienced International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is highly advised. The IBCLC will be able to determine if baby is correctly latching consistently and drinking with proficiency, at any age. With pumping, correct flange sizing and an optimally working breast pump will be determined. Recurring breast infections may negatively influence milk production even in future breastfeeding relationships. Immediate attention to mastitis and breast infection is imperative, as left untreated, often leads to abscess.

Check Mastitis Protocol (Revised 2022) https://www.bfmed.org/assets/ABM%20Protocol%20%2336.pdf and other protocols for the most current and comprehensive information regarding mastitis and other breastfeeding related protocols by the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine.

American Breastfeeding Foundation is dedicated to providing access to education and lactation care to ALL vulnerable breastfeeding families. If you are struggling with breastfeeding or have questions, American Breast Feeding Foundation can help support breastfeeding goals.

René Moore is a registered IBCLC in private practice in Scottsdale, Arizona. Her interest and passion for breastfeeding began in 1996 upon becoming a mother. In 2000 she became a La Leche League Leader and lead Arizona for over a decade. Realizing the need for skilled lactation care in addition to volunteer support, she became an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant to be able to help more mothers, babies and families. She’s been performing in-home lactation consultation visits more than two decades and regularly attends procedures when requested by parents and welcomed by providers.

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