A Practical, Evidence-Based Guide by Holly Hill, BSN, RN, IBCLC | Light Up Lactation
Mastitis is one of those conditions that can bring even the strongest, most determined parent to their knees—fast. The pain, fatigue, swelling, and flu-like symptoms can be overwhelming, especially while caring for a newborn 24/7.
As a lactation consultant, I often hear things like:
“I didn’t know what to do—I just kept pumping and hoped it would go away,”
or
“My doctor only said to take antibiotics.”
Let’s change that. Below is what I recommend to my clients—a blend of comfort-focused care, clinical experience, and evidence-based guidance to help you feel better, faster.
First, What Is Mastitis?
Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue. It may or may not include infection. Often, it starts with milk stasis (milk not moving), engorgement, or a clogged duct. Think of it like a sprained ankle: hot, swollen, painful, and in need of rest—not overuse.
What You Can Do for Mastitis
1. Gentle Breast Movement ("Breast Gymnastics") Every 30–60 Minutes
Lightly sweep and move your breast tissue toward the armpit—especially before and after feeding or pumping. Lying flat while doing this can help fluid drainage. This should feel like a gentle massage, not deep pressure.
2. Alternate OTC Medications
Control pain and inflammation like you would a sports injury:
· Ibuprofen 800 mg every 8 hours
· Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 1000 mg every 8 hours
· (Alternate them every 4 hours for consistent relief)
3. Cold Packs After Feeding
Apply a cold compress (like Le Lolo’s Hot + Cold Breast Therapy Packs) for 10–15 minutes after feeding or pumping. Avoid heat during active mastitis—it can make swelling worse.
4. Supportive (Not Tight) Bra
Choose a well-fitting, supportive bra. Avoid anything tight or compressive, which can worsen symptoms.
5. Feed or Pump Just Enough
Continue to remove milk—but gently. Only pump or nurse enough to relieve pressure. Over-pumping can lead to more inflammation.
6. Try Sunflower Lecithin or Choline
These supplements help reduce milk “stickiness” and support better flow:
· Le Lolo Sunflower Lecithin – start low and increase gradually, too much can
· cause stomach irritation and diarrhea
· Choline – found in eggs or as a supplement
7. Add Targeted Probiotics
Look for probiotics with L. salivarius and L. fermentum strains. These support breast health and reduce recurrence. Recommended brands:
· LactationHub Probiotic + Choline
8. REST. REST. REST.
Cancel plans. Stay in bed. Prioritize healing. Mastitis is your body waving a red flag—don’t ignore it.
9. Hydrate & Nourish
Drink 1–2 liters of water daily and eat nutrient-dense, whole foods. Your body is doing major work—fuel it well.
10. Switch Up Feeding Positions
Rotating latch positions can help drain different areas of the breast and ease pressure.
What to Avoid
· Over-Pumping: More isn’t better. It can worsen swelling and make things more painful.
· Deep Tissue Massage: No knuckles, no digging. Gentle is best. Deep massage can actually cause more damage to inflamed tissue.
When to Call Your Doctor
If you’re doing all of the above and still running a fever of 102°F or higher for more than 24–48 hours, it’s time for antibiotics. Untreated mastitis can progress to a bacterial infection—or even an abscess.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to power through mastitis alone. Gentle care, rest, and smart strategies do make a difference.
If you’re a parent reading this, give yourself grace—you’re doing amazing. And if you’re a birth worker or lactation professional, please share this with your clients. Together, we can help families recover more quickly, feel confident in their feeding journey, and avoid long-term complications.
Written by Holly Hill, BSN, RN, IBCLC
Founder of Light Up Lactation
Want to see the original source for this info? You can find it at the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Clinical Protocol #36, The Mastitis Spectrum, reviews 2022
Looking for more tips as you are on your lactation journey? Grab my FREE New Parent Guide or check out one or all of my lactation mini courses today!
Holly Hill is a board certified lactation consultant (IBCLC), mom of 2, and owner of Light Up Lactation. She also works with the Breezy Babies team doing 1:1 consults in person in Northern Utah and worldwide via telehealth. She’s been a registered nurse for 20 years and lactation consultant for almost 10 years. She is focused on providing inclusive, non-judgmental care and has a slogan of “Protect the Nipples All The Time!” She can be found on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube as Light Up Lactation.
