Mastitis While Breastfeeding: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Get Support

Mastitis can be an uncomfortable and sometimes overwhelming experience while breastfeeding. It often comes on quickly and can leave parents feeling sore, unwell, and unsure about what to do next. The good news is that mastitis is treatable, and early support can make a meaningful difference in recovery and comfort.

At Rooted Family, we support families through mastitis with compassionate, evidence-based care focused on both symptom relief and prevention.

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What Is Mastitis?

Mastitis is inflammation of breast tissue that can occur during breastfeeding. It is often associated with blocked milk ducts and milk flow issues, and in some cases may involve a bacterial infection.

Mastitis can develop when milk is not effectively removed from the breast, leading to inflammation and increased pressure in the tissue.

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Common Symptoms of Mastitis

Symptoms can vary from person to person and may include:

• Breast pain or tenderness in a specific area
• Redness or warmth on the breast
• Swelling or firmness
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, or body aches
• Fatigue or feeling generally unwell

If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 24 to 48 hours, medical assessment is important.

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What Causes Mastitis While Breastfeeding?

Mastitis often develops due to one or more underlying feeding or pumping factors, including:

• Blocked or narrowed milk ducts
• Engorgement or oversupply
• Infrequent or ineffective milk removal
• Nipple damage or pain that affects feeding patterns
• Changes in feeding routines or pumping schedules

Identifying and addressing these contributing factors is key to both treatment and prevention.

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How Is Mastitis Treated?

Treatment for mastitis depends on severity and symptoms, but often includes a combination of supportive care and medical management.

Supportive care may include:

• Continuing to breastfeed or pump regularly
• Gentle comfort measures as recommended by your care provider
• Rest and hydration

Medical treatment:

If symptoms suggest a bacterial infection or do not improve, a health care provider may prescribe antibiotics. It is important to complete the full course if antibiotics are recommended.

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How Lactation Support Can Help With Mastitis

Working with a lactation consultant can be an important part of mastitis care. A lactation consultant can help assess feeding or pumping patterns, identify factors contributing to blocked ducts or inflammation, and offer practical strategies to support healing.

Support may include guidance around latch, positioning, pumping routines, milk supply management, and preventing recurrence.

You can learn more about our lactation consultant services here.

Can Blocked Duct Ultrasound Therapy Help With Mastitis?

Blocked duct ultrasound therapy may be used as a complementary treatment for mastitis, alongside medical care when needed. Therapeutic ultrasound uses gentle sound waves to help reduce inflammation and improve milk flow in affected areas of the breast.

This non-invasive therapy can be helpful when blocked ducts are contributing to ongoing discomfort or recurrent mastitis.

Learn more about blocked duct ultrasound therapy here.

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When to Seek Additional Support

If you are experiencing:

• Recurrent mastitis
• Persistent breast pain or blocked ducts
• Difficulty continuing feeding due to discomfort

Early support can help reduce the risk of complications and make recovery smoother.

Mastitis Support in Ottawa

Rooted Family provides lactation consultant care and blocked duct ultrasound therapy for families in Ottawa, including Kanata and Orléans. Our team offers compassionate, evidence-based support to help you feel better and continue feeding in a way that feels right for your family.

If you are navigating mastitis or ongoing feeding challenges, support is available.

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