Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue. It does not only occur in women; men can develop mastitis as well. The condition is more common in breastfeeding mothers. Mastitis develops when a milk duct becomes blocked or becomes infected.

According to the Mayo Clinic, common symptoms of mastitis include:

• Warm and tender breast

• Breast swelling

• Thickened breast tissues, sometimes with a noticeable lump

• A burning sensation in the breast during feeding

• Breast redness 

• A general sensation of fatigue

• High fever

Mastitis most often appears within the first 6-12 weeks of breastfeeding. The risks are higher if you have breast implants, diabetes, autoimmune conditions, eczema, breast piercings, or a habit of smoking.

From a medical standpoint, this breast infection occurs when bacteria enter the breast through the skin, for example when the nipple is cracked, the baby’s latch is poor, or a bra is too tight and interferes with milk flow. Mastitis can also result from a blocked milk duct, which leads to a build-up of milk, hardening of the breast tissue, and eventually infection.

You are generally advised to continue breastfeeding even if you have mastitis. The infection is not passed on to your baby through breast milk, although feeding may feel painful and uncomfortable.

To help reduce your risk of developing mastitis, the Cleveland Clinic recommends the following:

• Gently massage your nipples after breastfeeding to release trapped air.

• Avoid using excessively tight nursing pads and change them as soon as they become damp.

• Let your baby feed on one breast until it feels soft and empty before switching sides.

• Change breastfeeding positions if the latch does not feel right.

• Drink enough fluids and avoid becoming dehydrated.

• Keep your nipples clean after feeds to reduce the chance of bacteria entering through cracked or sore skin.

How to Treat Mastitis

There are several ways to manage mastitis. The first goal is to relieve breast pain and swelling.

• Apply a warm compress to the breast to help stimulate milk flow.

• Breastfeed at least every two hours to prevent milk from building up. Use a breast pump if needed to help empty the breast.

• Drink plenty of water and make sure you get enough rest.

• Massage the breast gently, using circular movements from the sore area toward the nipple to help clear the blockage.

• Take ibuprofen to help relieve pain.

• Wear a comfortable, non-restrictive bra and try to keep your breasts dry. Change your bra and nursing pads whenever they become wet with breast milk.

When it is treated correctly, breast infections usually improve quickly and do not cause complications. Do not stop breastfeeding, and use a pump if necessary to keep milk flowing and prevent further blockage. If your symptoms do not improve, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

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