Breast abscesses, caused by bacterial infections, can occur in breastfeeding or non-breastfeeding women. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and pain. Treatment involves antibiotics and draining pus. Prevention includes proper breastfeeding techniques and seeking help for mastitis or blocked milk ducts.
A breast abscess is a pus-filled area inside the breast. This pus-filled space can develop just under the skin or deeper inside the breast, and most are caused by a bacterial infection. Abscesses most commonly occur in women who are breastfeeding after delivery but occasionally occur in women who are not breastfeeding.
Women with abscesses may notice redness, swelling, or hardening of the breast tissue. A breast abscess can also form a lump in the breast that may be noticeable. In some cases, a woman may experience pain or nipple discharge. With more severe cases, a woman might experience flu-like symptoms, including fever or vomiting.
For women who are breastfeeding, a breast abscess could form as a result of mastitis or a breast infection. Mastitis typically occurs when bacteria are able to enter the mother’s breast through cracked nipples or milk ducts. Bacteria that are already on a person’s skin are then able to enter the mother’s body, multiply and cause infection. If mastitis is not treated properly, a breast abscess can form. Mastitis can occur in women who are not breastfeeding, but it is much rarer.
Another common cause of an abscess for nursing mothers is a blocked milk duct. When a milk duct leading to the nipple becomes blocked, it can cause a tender breast lump. If the duct isn’t treated and disconnected, it can lead to an infection or the development of a breast abscess.
A doctor can typically diagnose a breast abscess with a physical exam and description of the patient’s symptoms. In some cases, your doctor may need to do an ultrasound to identify abscesses deeper under the skin’s surface. Treatment for a breast abscess typically involves a course of antibiotics to fight the infection. For more severe abscesses, your doctor may need to surgically drain pus from your breasts. A doctor will likely encourage the mother to continue emptying milk from the breast, either by breastfeeding or using a pump.
Nursing mothers can work to prevent mastitis, blocked milk ducts, and subsequent breast abscesses. Women should be careful not to have their nipples cracked or damaged. Nursing mothers should feed their babies frequently to prevent breast engorgement and complications. Mothers should also practice proper breastfeeding techniques and seek help from a lactation consultant if they are having problems or if the baby is unable to latch on properly.
Women who suspect they have mastitis or blocked milk ducts should contact a healthcare professional before the problem can develop into a breast abscess. Early treatment can often help women avoid more serious infections. A breastfeeding mother should continue to breastfeed unless her doctor tells her otherwise.
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