WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Mastitis is when part of the breast becomes inflamed and swollen. It is most common during the first few months of breastfeeding. But it can happen at any time. The condition can also cause flu-like symptoms, including fever and chills. Mastitis usually results from a blocked milk duct or bacteria entering the breast, and it can be treated effectively with antibiotics, warm compresses, and continued breastfeeding or pumping to alleviate milk stagnation. The goal of treatment is to ease discomfort and get the milk flowing again. If milk flow stays blocked, mastitis can lead to infection.