Mastitis
Mastitis is inflammation of the breast or udder, usually associated with breastfeeding. Symptoms typically include local pain and redness. There is often an associated fever and general soreness. Onset is typically fairly rapid and usually occurs within the first few months of delivery. Complications can include abscess formation.
| Mastitis | |
|---|---|
| Other names | mammitis; garget |
| A drawing of mastitis from the early 1900s | |
| Pronunciation |
|
| Specialty | Gynecology |
| Symptoms | Localized breast pain and redness, fever |
| Complications | Abscess |
| Usual onset | Rapid |
| Diagnostic method | Based on symptoms |
| Differential diagnosis | Plugged milk duct, breast engorgement, breast cancer (rare) |
| Prevention | Frequent breastfeeding with good technique |
| Treatment | Antibiotics (cephalexin), ibuprofen |
| Frequency | 10% of breastfeeding women |
Risk factors include poor latch, cracked nipples, use of a breast pump, and weaning. The bacteria most commonly involved are Staphylococcus and Streptococci. Diagnosis is typically based on symptoms. Ultrasound may be useful for detecting a potential abscess.
Prevention of this breastfeeding difficulty is by proper breastfeeding techniques. When infection is present, antibiotics such as cephalexin may be recommended. Breastfeeding should typically be continued, as emptying the breast is important for healing. Tentative evidence supports benefits from probiotics. About 10% of breastfeeding women are affected.