18/05/2026
Mastitis – a word no breastfeeding mum wants to hear, yet it’s something many of us may encounter during our journey.
But what exactly is mastitis, and how can you recognise the signs early to prevent it from becoming a more serious issue?
Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that can sometimes lead to infection. It usually starts with a blocked duct, where milk flow becomes restricted and builds up behind the blockage, causing irritation and swelling.
If not treated promptly, this can lead to a more severe infection, leaving you feeling drained and in need of extra care.
So, what should you be looking out for? Here are some common signs of mastitis:
✨ Breast pain or tenderness: The affected area can feel sore, sensitive, or even painful to the touch. This pain may increase when feeding or expressing.
✨ Redness or warmth: The skin over the inflamed area might become red and feel hot. This redness often appears in a wedge-shaped pattern as the inflammation spreads.
✨ Swelling or hardness: The affected breast can feel swollen, firm, or have noticeable lumps due to blocked milk ducts.
✨ Fever and flu-like symptoms: Unlike a simple blocked duct, mastitis can cause systemic symptoms. You might experience a fever, chills, and feel generally run down, similar to having the flu.
✨ Decreased milk supply in the affected breast: As mastitis impacts milk flow, you might notice a temporary drop in your milk production on the affected side.
So, what can you do if you suspect mastitis? Early treatment is key. Continuing to breastfeed or express milk is essential. Light lymphatic drainage, gentle cooling and staying hydrated are also helpful.
Lactamo is an excellent tool here – its soft design supports lymphatic drainage and helps ease inflammation.
Remember, mastitis can escalate quickly, so always consult a healthcare professional if your symptoms worsen or don’t improve.