Mastitis

Mastitis is swelling and often infection of breast tissue, most common in the first weeks of breastfeeding. Mastitis symptoms include a red, painful, warm area of the breast with fever and chills. It is very treatable, and you can usually keep breastfeeding.

What Is It

Mastitis often starts with a clogged milk duct or milk that is not fully removed. Bacteria from the skin or the baby’s mouth can enter through a cracked nipple. Skipped feeds, a poor latch, tight bras, and fatigue raise the risk. It can also happen in women who are not breastfeeding.

Symptoms

A red, swollen, painful area on one breast
Warmth in the breast
A hard lump or wedge shaped area
Fever of 101 degrees or higher
Chills and body aches, like the flu
Pain while breastfeeding

Not sure it’s mastitis? A tender lump without fever is often a clogged duct. A firm, painful lump that does not shrink may be a breast abscess that needs draining.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines the breast and checks for an abscess. Mastitis is often treated with an antibiotic that is safe while breastfeeding. Pain relief and feeding position changes help. An abscess may need ultrasound or drainage.

At home:

Keep breastfeeding or pumping on the affected side
Use cold packs between feeds to ease swelling
Take over the counter pain relievers as directed
Rest and drink plenty of fluids

Most mastitis improves within 1 to 2 days of treatment.

When to Get Care for Mastitis

Watch at Home

A tender spot without fever that eases with feeding
A clogged duct improving within a day
Feeling well otherwise

Come to Urgent Care Today

A red, painful area of the breast with fever or chills
Flu like symptoms while breastfeeding
Symptoms not improving after 1 to 2 days of home care
A painful lump that does not shrink
Cracked nipples with redness spreading

Go to the Emergency Department

High fever with confusion, a racing heart, or fainting
Rapidly spreading redness or skin turning dark
Unable to keep fluids down with high fever

FAQ

What are the first signs of mastitis?

The first signs of mastitis are usually a tender, red, warm area on one breast, followed by fever, chills, and body aches that feel like the flu.

Can I keep breastfeeding with mastitis?

Yes, you can and should keep breastfeeding with mastitis. Breast milk is safe for your baby, and emptying the breast helps it heal faster.

Can mastitis go away on its own?

Mild breast swelling without fever may improve with frequent feeding and rest. Mastitis with fever usually needs antibiotics.

How long does mastitis last?

Mastitis usually improves within 1 to 2 days of starting treatment. Finish all of the antibiotic to keep it from coming back.

Can urgent care treat mastitis?

Yes, urgent care can treat mastitis. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine the breast and check for an abscess. No appointment or referral is needed.

Can you get mastitis without breastfeeding?

Yes, mastitis can happen without breastfeeding, though it is less common. It should be checked to rule out other causes.

Last reviewed October 2026