What is the treatment for mastitis?

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Last updated: February 16, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Mastitis treatment typically involves continuing to breastfeed, with regular feeding or expression of milk serving as an adjunct to other treatment, and antibiotics may be indicated. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics 1, mothers with mastitis are encouraged to continue breastfeeding, as it can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

  • Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection, with the goal of preventing the progression to breast abscesses, which require drainage 1.
  • Supportive measures, such as applying warm compresses and resting, can also help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
  • Breastfeeding can continue on the affected side as long as the infant’s mouth does not contact purulent material 1.
  • In severe cases, approximately 10% of mastitis cases, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics may be necessary to treat breast abscesses 1. It is essential to note that the treatment of mastitis should be individualized, and the decision to use antibiotics or other interventions should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the severity of the infection and the patient's overall health.

From the Research

Treatment for Mastitis

There are no research papers provided to assist in answering this question. The studies provided are related to antibiotic therapy for various infections, including neonatal sepsis, gram-negative bacteremia, bloodstream infections, and complicated urinary tract infections, but none of them specifically address the treatment for mastitis.

  • The studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 discuss the optimal duration of antibiotic therapy for different types of infections, but do not provide information on the treatment for mastitis.
  • Mastitis is a condition that requires specific treatment, which may include antibiotics, but the provided studies do not offer any relevant information on this topic.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Seven Versus 14 Days of Antibiotic Therapy for Uncomplicated Gram-negative Bacteremia: A Noninferiority Randomized Controlled Trial.

Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, 2019

Research

Defining the Optimal Duration of Therapy for Hospitalized Patients With Complicated Urinary Tract Infections and Associated Bacteremia.

Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, 2023

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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