Overview

Mastitis is a breast inflammation that can sometimes become an infection. It can happen to anyone who breastfeeds (sometimes called chestfeeding). But it can happen at any time. You can keep breastfeeding your baby. In fact, breastfeeding usually helps to clear up mastitis, and it won't harm your baby.

If you have mastitis, you may first notice pain, swelling, or warmth on an area of your breast. And the skin may be reddish, purplish, or brownish, depending on your usual skin colour. You may also have a fever and have chills, aches, and flu-like symptoms.

Taking these steps can help prevent mastitis.

• Breastfeed regularly. Follow your baby’s cues to feed. Most breastfed infants will cue spontaneously for feeds between 1 to 3 hours. If your baby does not wake up by 3 hours, then you should wake them, especially in the first 2 weeks of life. If you are separated from your baby and will miss feeds, arrange to pump or hand express your breasts until they soften and feel comfortable. Try not to remove more milk than your baby needs.
• Position yourself well. When you and your baby are aligned, the baby can latch on to the areola, not just the nipple and will be able to empty your breast.
• Use different positions. This can help drain all areas of your breast. Try breastfeeding positions such as the Australian hold, the cradle hold, the cross-cradle hold, the football hold, and the side-lying position.
• Alternate which breast you offer first.
• Wear a supportive bra that fits.
• Avoid massaging your breasts. Avoid deep breast massage or massaging your breasts towards your nipple. This can cause damage to your breast tissue.
• Try to rest. Ask your partner, family, and friends to help you at home.
If you are making more milk than your baby needs or if you have sore or cracked nipples, get help from your healthcare provider or call Health Link at 811.