Mastitis (breast infection) is common during breastfeeding and can be severely uncomfortable, both physically and emotionally. The most important thing is to react to the symptoms in time to get the right help, while also protecting your breastfeeding journey and your recovery. Here's a practical, clear guide to what to look out for and what you can do right now.

Typical symptoms of mastitis often appear quite suddenly and can resemble a mix of local breast irritation and flu-like symptoms. You may experience: soreness and pain in one area of the breast, swelling or tension, warmth in the skin, and a reddish area (some describe it as "wedge-shaped"). Many also experience general malaise with chills, fever, or an "aching all over" feeling.

Notice if the symptoms are in one breast or both, if you develop a fever, and if the pain worsens during breastfeeding. Also, note if the baby has changed their sucking technique or if feedings are being skipped, as this can affect breast emptying.

Fever can be a sign that your body is reacting strongly and that you should take the symptoms seriously. Contact a doctor, out-of-hours doctor, or midwife if you have a high fever, become significantly more unwell, or if your symptoms do not improve within approximately 12 to 24 hours despite rest, fluids, and focus on good breast emptying. Also seek help quickly if you experience severe pain, or if a hard, very tender lump develops that does not change.

If you feel significantly unwell, if the fever rises, or if the redness spreads, it's a good idea to get evaluated the same day.

A blocked milk duct often causes a local lump or tender spot and a feeling of "pressure," but without necessarily feeling unwell. Mastitis more often has clear general symptoms such as fever, chills, and pronounced malaise. However, the transition can be gradual, so it's worth reacting early: more frequent breastfeeding, rest, and ensuring the breast is emptied as gently and effectively as possible.

When you feel initial symptoms, prioritizing three things can help:

1. Rest and fluids, because your body is working.
2. Frequent and gentle emptying of the breast, typically by breastfeeding according to the baby's needs (get help with latch and positioning if needed).
3. Relief from pressure: Avoid tight clothing, especially bras with underwires, as they can press on the tissue and potentially irritate the milk ducts. Instead, choose soft, flexible support.

Breastfeed often, take breaks, and have a professional look at the latch if you are unsure. If you get worse instead of better, don't "tough it out" – get help.

You should contact a doctor/midwife if you have a fever and impaired general condition, if symptoms worsen, or if there is no clear improvement within 12 to 24 hours. Also contact them if you have recurrent problems, wounds that won't heal, or if you are concerned about an abscess (e.g., with persistent, localized severe pain and hard swelling).

Mastitis is common, and you are not alone. The earlier you get an assessment and support, the easier it often is to recover well.

If symptoms of mastitis are associated with soreness, pressure, and a need for gentle support, products that provide comfort in everyday life without constriction can be helpful. A flexible nursing bra without underwire can provide relief, such as the Gel-Support Maternity & Nursing Bra. For leakage and irritated skin, reusable nursing pads can help keep the area dry, such as Washable 6x Cotton Breast Pads. If you are in the early postpartum period and want to have more essential items gathered, the New Mum Care Pack may be relevant.