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Obstetrics

Mastitis: Common Causes, Prevention and Treatment

A nurse in scrubs gently hands a swaddled newborn to a smiling woman by a clear hospital bassinet in a bright, welcoming room.

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast which often happens because of blocked milk ducts and/or nipple damage.

Recognising Mastitis
  • Tenderness, reddened areas and uncomfortable or painful breast lumps
  • Women who have mastitis are likely to feel generally unwell, hot and cold, achy and shivery
  • Sometimes infective mastitis feels like getting the flu
Common Causes
  • Baby not attaching well to the breast
  • Nipple damage
  • Blocked milk ducts
  • Long gaps between feeds - leading to very full breasts
  • Stopping breastfeeding suddenly
  • Tight or underwire bras causing pressure on breasts
  • Baby with a tongue-tie having problems feeding
Prevention
Treatment
  • It is important to start treatment at the first signs of mastitis
  • Your breast milk is safe for your baby even if you have mastitis. Continue breastfeeding or expressing from both breasts, particularly the affected breast
  • Frequent feeding protects your milk supply and helps prevent further blockage of milk ducts
  • You may need to feed more often than you usually do. At first start by offering the affected breast each time to help clear the blockage. Continue to offer the other breast so that it doesn’t become too full
  • A heat pack or warm cloth placed on the affected area may help the milk flow before feeding or expressing
  • Gentle massage toward the nipple during feeding or expressing milk, and while in the bath or shower may also help soften breast lumps and improve milk flow
  • A cool pack (or a packet of frozen peas), wrapped in a cloth and placed on the breast after feeding or expressing can help reduce inflammation and be good pain relief
  • Between feeds, very gently stroke the affected area towards the armpit to help reduce excess fluid
  • Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help with pain and is safe to take while breastfeeding
  • Drink plenty of water; rest when you can. Ask your partner, family or friends for help with household tasks
  • Some women with frequent feeding can clear blocked milk ducts, but if you are unwell or the breast is red, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Tell the clinic receptionist that you think you have mastitis
  • If antibiotics are prescribed by your doctor, take as directed. It is safe to continue to breastfeed when taking these antibiotics
A newborn, securely wrapped in a white blanket, rests calmly on a hospital bed under gentle natural light, ensuring comfort and safety.
Website
Australian Breastfeeding Association

As Australia’s leading authority on breastfeeding, ABA supports, educates and advocates for a breastfeeding inclusive society. 

Related Services

Neonatal Care
Obstetrics

Disclaimer: This fact sheet provides general information only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For specific advice regarding your health or medical concerns, please consult your healthcare provider. Burnside Hospital does not accept any responsibility for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information provided. In case of urgent medical needs, please contact your nearest emergency department.

Created: August 2025

Burnside Hospital acknowledges the Kaurna people as the Traditional Owners of the land and waters on which we live and care for our community.
We recognise their Native Title Rights to Country, and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

Visit burnsidehospital.asn.au for more information