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Mastitis: What It Is, How It Feels, and How to Fix It

If you’re nursing a baby and suddenly notice a painful, red, and warm spot on your breast, you’re probably dealing with mastitis. It’s a common breast infection that can make feeding feel miserable, but the good news is it’s usually easy to treat once you know what to do.

Spotting the Signs Early

Mastitis usually shows up with a few clear clues: a sore lump that feels hot to the touch, redness that spreads like a sunburn, fever over 100.4°F (38°C), and feeling generally achy or fatigued. Some moms also notice a sudden drop in milk supply or a sharp sting while feeding. If you catch these symptoms early, you can start treatment fast and avoid a deeper infection.

Why Mastitis Happens

Most cases start when milk gets trapped in the duct and bacteria take the chance to grow. A blocked duct can be caused by skipping feeds, a poor latch, or even a sudden change in your baby’s feeding routine. Stress, fatigue, and tight clothing can add to the problem by squeezing the breast and slowing milk flow.

There are two main types: lactational mastitis, which occurs while you’re nursing, and non‑lactational mastitis, which can affect anyone with breast tissue. The lactational form is far more common, so most tips focus on nursing moms.

Quick fixes you can try at home include:

  • Keep feeding or pumping often to empty the breast.
  • Massage the sore area gently while nursing to help clear the blockage.
  • Apply warm compresses before feeding to boost milk flow, then cool packs afterward to ease pain.
  • Make sure your baby has a good latch – a poor latch can leave milk stuck.
  • Stay hydrated and get enough rest; your body needs energy to fight infection.

If the pain doesn’t improve after 24‑48 hours, or you develop a high fever, it’s time to see a healthcare professional. Doctors often prescribe a short course of antibiotics that target the common bacteria behind mastitis, and they’ll advise you on safe pain relievers.

While antibiotics clear the infection, you’ll still need to keep feeding or pumping to prevent a backup. Skipping feeds can make the infection return, so keep the milk moving even if you feel sore.

Preventing future episodes is mostly about routine. Aim for regular feeding intervals, make sure the baby’s mouth covers most of the areola, and switch sides during each session. If you notice a persistent area that feels tight or hard, treat it early with warm compresses and a quick massage.

In rare cases, mastitis can turn into a breast abscess—a pocket of pus that may need to be drained. Signs of an abscess include a growing lump that doesn’t get softer with massage, intense pain, and sometimes a fever that won’t break. If you suspect an abscess, get medical help right away.

Bottom line: mastitis is uncomfortable but not a disaster. Spot the symptoms, keep the milk flowing, use warm compresses, and call your doctor for antibiotics if needed. With these steps you’ll be back to normal feeding in just a few days and can keep your milk supply healthy for the long haul.

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