Quick answer. Mastitis is painful inflammation of the breast, most often during breastfeeding, that can develop into an infection with a red, hard, tender area plus fever and flu-like symptoms. It is usually treated by continuing to feed or express milk and, where needed, antibiotics – but a worsening swelling could be an abscess and needs urgent care.
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Mastitis is inflammation of breast tissue that commonly affects women who are breastfeeding, particularly in the early weeks. It typically causes a painful, red, firm area in one breast along with flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills and aching. It is a frequent and distressing problem for new mothers in Singapore, but it is treatable, and in most cases breastfeeding can and should continue.
Mastitis often begins when milk is not drained well from part of the breast, leading to a blocked duct and inflammation; bacteria can then cause infection. Early action – effective milk removal, rest and fluids – resolves many cases, while others need antibiotics. Occasionally an untreated infection forms a collection of pus called a breast abscess, which needs prompt medical treatment. This guide covers the symptoms, how mastitis is managed, the note on non-breastfeeding (non-lactational) mastitis, and when to seek urgent care.
At a glance
| Condition | Typical features | What's usually needed |
|---|---|---|
| Blocked duct | Tender lump, no fever, otherwise well | Frequent feeding/expressing, warmth, massage |
| Mastitis (inflammatory) | Red, hard, painful area; may feel feverish | Continue feeding, rest, fluids, monitor |
| Infective mastitis | Above plus fever and flu-like symptoms | Antibiotics from a doctor, continue feeding |
| Breast abscess | Worsening swelling, fluctuant lump, high fever | Urgent review; drainage may be needed |
| Non-lactational mastitis | Inflammation not related to breastfeeding | Medical assessment to find the cause |
What is mastitis?
Mastitis is inflammation of breast tissue that may or may not involve infection. It most often occurs in breastfeeding women, usually when milk builds up in part of the breast because it is not being drained effectively – for example from a blocked duct, infrequent feeds or difficulty with latching. The trapped milk causes inflammation, and bacteria entering through the nipple can lead to infection.
It is a common condition among breastfeeding mothers in Singapore, especially in the first few months. Less commonly, mastitis can occur in women who are not breastfeeding (non-lactational mastitis), which has different causes and is assessed by a doctor to identify the underlying reason.
Symptoms & signs
Mastitis usually affects one breast and can come on quickly. Common symptoms include:
- A red, swollen, hard and painful area of the breast
- Warmth or a wedge-shaped patch of redness
- Pain or a burning sensation, which may be worse during feeding
- Fever, chills and flu-like aching
- Feeling generally unwell and tired
If the symptoms worsen despite treatment, or a firm swelling develops that feels like it contains fluid, this may indicate a breast abscess and needs prompt medical review.
Causes & risk factors
Mastitis usually starts with milk that is not being removed effectively, followed in some cases by infection. Contributing factors include:
- Infrequent or missed feeds, or a sudden change in feeding routine
- Poor latch or positioning, so the breast does not drain fully
- A blocked milk duct
- Cracked or damaged nipples, allowing bacteria to enter
- Pressure on the breast from tight clothing or bras
- Being very tired or run down
Non-lactational mastitis, which is less common, can be linked to other causes and may need separate evaluation.
How it's diagnosed
Mastitis is usually diagnosed from the history and a physical examination of the breast, based on the typical red, tender area and any fever or flu-like symptoms. Tests are often not needed for straightforward cases.
If symptoms are severe, not improving with treatment, or recurrent, a doctor may arrange further checks – for example an ultrasound to look for a breast abscess, or a sample of milk for culture to guide antibiotic choice. For non-lactational mastitis, or any inflammation that does not settle as expected, additional assessment is done to exclude other causes.
Treatment options
The cornerstone of treatment is continuing to remove milk effectively, because keeping the breast drained helps the inflammation settle. Usual measures include:
- Continue breastfeeding or expressing – it is generally safe and helpful to keep feeding from the affected breast
- Rest and fluids – to support recovery
- Pain relief – simple analgesics such as those advised by your doctor, which are compatible with breastfeeding
- Warm compresses before feeds and gentle support – to aid milk flow and comfort
- Antibiotics – prescribed when infection is likely or symptoms are not improving; complete the full course
If an abscess forms, it may need to be drained by a doctor. Because mastitis is treated in the outpatient or GP setting and management varies with severity, there is no fixed price; consultation and any antibiotics are the main costs – ask your clinic for current fees.
When to see a doctor & which specialist
See a doctor promptly if you have a painful red area in the breast with a fever or flu-like symptoms, if symptoms do not improve within about 24 hours of improved feeding and rest, or if they are getting worse. Antibiotics are often needed, and early treatment helps prevent complications. A GP, your obstetrician or a breast specialist can manage mastitis; a lactation consultant can also help with feeding technique.
Seek urgent medical care if you develop a high fever, a worsening or fluctuant swelling that may be an abscess, spreading redness, or you feel very unwell – these need prompt assessment and possible drainage. Call 995 or go to A&E if you are severely unwell, for example with a very high fever, confusion or signs of sepsis.
For assessment and follow-up, find a specialist through our directory of gynaecologists in Singapore.
Related guides
- Best Gynaecology Clinics in Singapore — our editorial shortlist
- gynaecology clinics directory
- Hernia
- Appendicitis
- Stye & chalazion
- Ear wax removal
- Spondylosis
Sources
- NHS – Mastitis
- Mayo Clinic – Mastitis
- HealthHub Singapore – Breastfeeding
- KK Women's and Children's Hospital
Part of our Breast health guides · Browse all health topics