Meaning of Mastitis

Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that most commonly affects women who are breastfeeding. It often occurs within the first three months after delivery, but can happen any time during
the breastfeeding period. Generally, lactation mastitis affects only one breast, not both.

It results from a blocked milk duct, causing milk to remain in the breast that may lead to infection. Another cause of breast infection is bacteria entering the breast through a break or crack on the nipple.

Some signs and symptoms of mastitis are breast pain, swelling, inflammation, redness, and tenderness or warmth to the touch. Other symptoms include fever and chills. The condition can leave a mother exhausted, making it difficult to take care of her newborn baby.

If you have mastitis, it’s important that you continue breastfeeding. It does not pose any risk to your baby. In fact, it offers the added benefit of helping clear the infection in your breast. If breastfeeding becomes too painful, try pumping or hand-expressing your milk to prevent the milk ducts from clogging.

At the same time, you can use some home remedies to treat the infection and reduce discomfort. If the problem persists for a few weeks and makes breastfeeding painful, consult your doctor.