Breast infection (mastitis)

Mastitis (mast-EYE-tiss) is soreness or a lump in the breast. It can cause symptoms such as:

• Fever and/or flu-like symptoms, such as feeling run down or very achy
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Yellowish discharge from the nipple that looks like colostrum
• Breasts that feel warm or hot to the touch and appear pink or red

A breast infection can occur when other family members have a cold or the flu. It usually only occurs in one breast. It is not always easy to tell the difference between a breast infection and a plugged duct because both have similar symptoms and can improve within 24 to 48 hours. Some breast infections that do not improve on their own within this time period need to be treated with medicine given by a doctor. (Learn more about medicines and breastfeeding in the Breastfeeding fact sheet.)

What you can do

• Breastfeed on the affected side every two hours or more often. This will keep the milk moving freely and your breast from becoming overly full.
• Massage the area, starting behind the sore spot. Move your fingers in a circular motion and massage toward the nipple.
• Apply heat to the sore area with a warm compress.
• Get extra sleep, or relax with your feet up to help speed healing. Often a breast infection is a sign that a mother is doing too much and becoming overly tired.
• Wear a well-fitting, supportive bra that is not too tight, since this can constrict milk ducts.

Ask your doctor for help if you do not feel better within 24 hours of trying these tips, if you have a fever, or if your symptoms worsen. You might need medicine. See your doctor right away if:

• You have a breast infection in which both breasts look affected
• There is pus or blood in your breastmilk
• You have red streaks near the affected area of the breast
• Your symptoms came on severely and suddenly