Mastitis in Breastfeeding: What It Is, Symptoms, and How to Care for It

Many breastfeeding parents search for answers when they suddenly feel flu-like symptoms, breast pain, or notice redness on their chest. Mastitis is a common breastfeeding condition that can feel intense and alarming, especially when it comes on quickly.

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that can involve infection. It often begins with milk stasis (milk not draining well) and can worsen if not treated early. The good news is that mastitis is very treatable, and most parents recover fully with the right care and support.

This guide explains what mastitis is, how to recognize it, and how to care for mastitis while continuing to breastfeed safely.

What Is Mastitis?

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue that may or may not involve bacterial infection. It usually develops when milk is not flowing well through part of the breast, leading to swelling, pressure, and irritation. Bacteria can then enter through cracked nipples or skin openings.

Mastitis can happen at any point during breastfeeding but is most common in the early weeks postpartum when feeding patterns are still being established.

What Causes Mastitis?

Several factors increase the risk of mastitis:

Infrequent or skipped feeds
Poor latch or inefficient milk removal
Engorgement
Pressure on the breast (tight bras, sleeping on one side)
Cracked or bleeding nipples
Sudden changes in feeding schedule
Stress and exhaustion
Weaning too quickly

Mastitis often starts as a blocked duct and progresses when milk builds up behind the blockage.

Early Signs of Mastitis

Recognizing mastitis early can prevent worsening symptoms. Early mastitis symptoms include:

A tender or painful area in the breast
Swelling or firmness
Warmth in one spot
A small lump or wedge-shaped area
Mild fatigue or body aches

At this stage, inflammation may not yet be infected and may respond well to supportive care.

Advanced Mastitis Symptoms

As mastitis progresses, symptoms often include:

Red, hot, or swollen patch on the breast
Flu-like symptoms
Fever and chills
Body aches
Headache
Fatigue
Pain during feeding
Rapid onset of illness

These symptoms can feel sudden and overwhelming, sometimes appearing within hours.

Mastitis vs. Clogged Ducts

Clogged ducts usually cause:

A small tender lump
No fever
Localized discomfort
Improvement after feeding

Mastitis includes systemic symptoms like fever and body aches. A clogged duct can turn into mastitis if not resolved.

Can You Breastfeed With Mastitis?

Yes. In most cases, continuing to breastfeed is part of treatment.

Emptying the breast helps reduce inflammation and pressure. Breast milk is safe for babies even if mastitis involves infection.

Stopping breastfeeding suddenly can worsen symptoms and increase the risk of abscess formation.

Medical Treatment for Mastitis

If symptoms are severe or last longer than 24 hours, medical care is needed.

Treatment may include:

Antibiotics (if bacterial infection is suspected)
Pain relievers
Anti-inflammatory medication
Rest and hydration

It is important to finish the full course of antibiotics if prescribed, even if symptoms improve quickly.

Home Care for Mastitis

Supportive care plays a major role in healing:

Rest as much as possible
Stay well hydrated
Feed frequently from the affected breast
Vary nursing positions
Avoid tight clothing
Support your immune system
Use gentle massage toward the nipple
Apply cold packs after feeds to reduce swelling

Avoid aggressive massage, which can worsen inflammation and tissue damage.

Pumping and Mastitis

If baby cannot nurse well, pumping may help maintain milk flow. Pump only to comfort, not to fully empty aggressively.

Ensure pump parts fit properly and are clean to avoid further nipple damage.

When Mastitis Doesn’t Improve

If symptoms do not improve within 24–48 hours of treatment, further evaluation is needed.

Possible complications include:

Breast abscess
Persistent infection
Recurrent mastitis
Milk supply changes

Ultrasound or additional medication may be required in stubborn cases.

Preventing Mastitis

While mastitis is not always preventable, risk can be reduced by:

Feeding frequently
Avoiding long gaps between feeds
Ensuring good latch
Rotating nursing positions
Treating nipple damage promptly
Avoiding tight bras
Managing stress and fatigue

Listening to your body’s early warning signs can stop mastitis before it worsens.

Emotional Impact of Mastitis

Mastitis can be physically painful and emotionally discouraging. Many parents feel guilt, fear, or worry about their milk supply or baby’s health.

These feelings are valid. Mastitis is not caused by failure. It is a medical condition that needs care and rest.

Support during mastitis can make a huge difference in recovery and confidence.

Mastitis vs. Thrush

Mastitis pain is often:

Deep, aching, and associated with fever

Thrush pain is often:

Burning, sharp, and continues between feeds

They can sometimes occur together, making diagnosis more complex.

When to Call a Provider

Contact a healthcare provider if:

You have a fever
Pain is severe
Redness spreads
Symptoms last longer than 24 hours
You feel very ill
A lump does not improve
You develop cracked or bleeding nipples

Early treatment prevents complications and prolonged discomfort.

Final Thoughts on Mastitis in Breastfeeding

Mastitis can feel frightening, especially when symptoms come on fast. But with prompt care, most parents recover fully and continue breastfeeding comfortably.

Mastitis is common.
Mastitis is treatable.
You do not have to stop breastfeeding.

If you are dealing with breast pain, fever, or sudden illness while nursing, you deserve support and proper care.

Breastfeeding challenges are medical issues — not personal failures — and help is available.