Mastitis 101: Causes, Symptoms & When to Seek Help

Breastfeeding comes with its ups and downs—some beautiful, some painful. Mastitis is one of those challenges that many moms don’t see coming… until they’re suddenly sore, exhausted, and wondering what just hit them 😓.

Let’s walk through what mastitis is, how to recognize the signs early, and what you can do to feel better fast. 💕

🤔 What Is Mastitis?

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue, often caused by a blocked milk duct or a bacterial infection. It typically affects breastfeeding moms in the first few months but can happen anytime during your nursing journey.

It can come on suddenly and leave you feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck. Not fun!

🚨 Common Symptoms to Watch For:

If you're experiencing any of these, you might be dealing with mastitis:

• 🔴 A red, swollen, or warm patch on your breast

• 😰 A hard lump or sore area that doesn't go away after feeding

• 🤒 Fever or chills

• 😩 Body aches and fatigue

• 🔥 Pain during nursing (more than the usual tenderness)

• 💧 Decreased milk flow from the affected side

🌟 Early action can help prevent it from getting worse—so trust your instincts, mama!

What Causes It?

Mastitis usually starts when milk gets stuck in a duct. This can lead to swelling or even infection.

Common causes include:

• 👶 Baby not emptying the breast fully

• 👙 Tight or poorly fitting bras (yes, really!)

• ⏱️ Going too long between feeds

• 💤 Skipping nursing or pumping sessions

• Bacteria entering through a cracked nipple

✨ Pro tip: Wearing a soft, wire-free nursing bra (like our Bloom & Heal maternity bra 💗) helps reduce pressure points that can block ducts—especially during sleep or long wear.

 At-Home Relief Tips

Caught it early? Here’s how to ease the discomfort:

• 🤱 Nurse often—start on the sore side to help drain it

• 🧊 Apply cold compresses between feedings

• ♨️ Use warm compresses before nursing to encourage flow

• 💆♀️ Massage gently from the lump toward the nipple

• 🛌 Rest as much as possible (yes, really. Let others help!)

• 💧 Hydrate and nourish your body

When to Call Your Doctor

If symptoms don’t improve within 24 hours—or if they worsen—you may need antibiotics. Don’t wait too long!

Call your healthcare provider if:

• Your fever rises above 101°F (38.5°C)

• Pain becomes severe

• The redness or lump spreads

• You feel very unwell

Mastitis is common but treatable. You’re not doing anything wrong—you just need support (and maybe some extra snuggles).

Choosing the right nursing bra can reduce the risk of blocked ducts and keep you feeling supported—not squeezed! 💗 Bloom & Heal’s wire-free, ultra-soft bras are designed for comfort, healing, and flow-friendly support.

👉 Looking for more tips like this? Explore the Bloom & Heal blog for gentle, real-life guidance on your motherhood journey 🌷