Mastitis and Breast Abscess: These are conditions arising in the breast due to inflammation which cause the breast to become red, hot and sore. Most commonly this is seen in patients who are breastfeeding (lactational) in which there is build-up of milk that can become infected by bacteria entering the milk ducts through a cracked nipple. However, this may affect patients not breastfeeding (non-lactational) for example, due to smoking or those that are more susceptible to infection such as those with diabetes.
Leaflet Details
| Title | Mastitis and Breast Abscess |
| Department | Breast Clinic |
| Author(s) | Annaliese Lawn |
| Review Date | June 2020 |
| Next Review | June 2022 |
| Download | A5 Booklet PDF |
| Accessibility Options | Click on the Recite Me button to show our accessibility resources |
Patient Information
What is Mastitis and Breast Abscess?
These are conditions arising in the breast due to inflammation which cause the breast to become red, hot and sore.
Most commonly this is seen in patients who are breastfeeding (lactational) in which there is build-up of milk that can become infected by bacteria entering the milk ducts through a cracked nipple. However, this may affect patients not breastfeeding (non-lactational) for example, due to smoking or those that are more susceptible to infection such as those with diabetes.
An abscess is a collection of pus within the breast.
Symptoms of Mastitis / Suspected Abscess
- Pain
- Redness
- Hot to touch
- Swelling or lump
- Generally unwell - fever, chills, aches & pains
Treatment
General Advice
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Take simple analgesia e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen if you are able to
- May require antibiotics as directed by your doctor
Breast feeding:
- Avoid tight fitting bras / clothes
- Apply warm compress / warm bath / shower to relieve the pain and help milk to flow
- Continue to breastfeed / express using a pump/by hand from both breasts
- Feed more frequently if the breast feels full or uncomfortable
- Start feeding on the sore side first so the baby is less full and likely to drain that breast of milk
- Try gentle breast massage or feed in different positions to help with milk flow
- Check positioning and attachment / latch to breast. Contact your Health visitor if required
What Happens Next?
Your doctor feels you can go home and do not currently need hospital admission.
Your doctor will refer you to the breast clinic at Ashford Hospital.
Please ensure your correct telephone contact details are on record and wait to be contacted by the breast / appointments team for the next available appointment (aimed to be the next working day if possible).
You will be reviewed by a member of the breast team who will explain what treatment you need and send you to the radiology department for a scan. The breast unit doctor will explain what follow up may be needed.
If a collection / abscess is seen this will usually be drained by the radiologist. It is a simple procedure to help manage your condition.
Most cases can be treated this way and rarely need an operation under general anaesthetic.
