About this disease
What it is about
Between 10 and 30 percent of women who have recently given birth develop mastitis during the breastfeeding period. Stress and overtiredness can promote the development. However, causes can also be a pressure point, milk congestion, sore nipples, separation from the child or sudden longer breaks between breastfeeding meals. Early preparation for breastfeeding and knowledge about breast changes and what to do about them can help prevent mastitis.
Symptoms and consequences
Hardening, lumps, redness and overheated breast are typical symptoms. Pain and/or swelling in the area of inflammation, chills, fever and aching limbs may be other complaints.
What we do for you
Examination and diagnosis
The diagnosis is made by means of a breast examination and specific questions from doctors and lactation consultants. As a rule, a blood test is performed and the doctor examines the breast with ultrasound to detect or exclude a possible accumulation of pus (abscess). It is also important to find out which factors have triggered the breast inflammation in order to initiate appropriate measures.
Treatment
In the early phase of mastitis, the focus is on cooling and relieving the breast as well as support in breastfeeding management. Affected women are informed about further measures such as taping and lasering, and breastfeeding counselors, nurses, and physicians are available to provide advice and support. If the symptoms do not improve quickly, treatment with antibiotics and pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory therapy is usually necessary. Regular breastfeeding or pumping continues to be important. The milk can be drunk by the baby.