Mastitis: Symptoms, Causes, and How to Treat It

Mastitis is a breast infection that affects up to 1 in 5 breastfeeding women. It can be painful and frightening, but with the right treatment, most cases resolve quickly without stopping breastfeeding.

What Is Mastitis?

Mastitis is inflammation of breast tissue, often caused by a bacterial infection. It most commonly occurs in the first 6 weeks of breastfeeding but can happen at any point.

Symptoms of Mastitis

• A hard, red, painful area of one breast
• Warmth and swelling in the affected area
• Flu-like symptoms: fever, chills, fatigue, body aches
• Pain during breastfeeding or pumping

Causes of Mastitis

• Milk not being fully drained (engorgement, missed feeds)
• A cracked or damaged nipple allowing bacteria to enter
• Pressure on the breast from a tight bra or sleeping position
• Sudden decrease in feeding frequency

Treatment

If you suspect mastitis, see your doctor promptly. Treatment typically includes antibiotics, rest, and continued breastfeeding or pumping from the affected breast. Stopping feeding can make things worse by causing further engorgement.

Home Comfort Measures

• Apply warm compresses before feeds to encourage milk flow
• Massage the affected area gently while pumping or feeding
• Continue pumping from both sides to prevent engorgement — the DualFlow Pump makes this efficient and comfortable
• Rest and stay well hydrated

Prevention

The best prevention is ensuring your breasts are fully drained at each feed or pump session, addressing any latch issues early, and not suddenly skipping feeds.

Support your breastfeeding journey with tools from Cradle's Feeding Collection.