Diagnosis

If breast pain occurs during breastfeeding, a gynaecologist should be consulted to find the appropriate diagnosis and discuss the further procedure. In addition to a medical consultation and a palpation of the breast and lymph nodes, other diagnostic measures such as a blood test, ultrasound or a smear test can also be helpful. In this way, it is relatively easy to detect an infection of various germs in the blood and in the smear.

The ultrasound shows spatial masses, such as an abscess. This is a newly formed cavity that is filled with pus. In order to rule out a malignant disease of the breast in the context of inflammatory breast cancer, a mammography can also be performed.

As the name suggests, a congestion of breast milk occurs during a milk congestion. Stress plays an important role in the development. No matter whether it is due to too many visitors, quarrelling or too many well-intentioned tips from friends and relatives, care should be taken to eliminate all stress factors.

But a too tight nursing bra or lack of sleep can also lead to this. Milk congestion usually presents itself as pain, redness, swelling, fever and chills. However, it is important to empty the breast regularly every 2 hours despite the pain.

A massage of the breast and a lot of warmth as well as stroking the mammary glands help to promote the flow. Many women find pumping out more pleasant than sucking the baby, as the breast is emptied completely. Once the congestion is relieved, the pain usually gets much better.

However, it may take a few more days until all symptoms have completely disappeared. For cooling after breastfeeding, quark compresses or cool packs can be used. However, only heat should be used before breastfeeding.

Inflammation of the breast (mastitis puerperalis) in the puerperium usually occurs about 2-4 weeks after delivery. In most cases, the inflammation is caused by the skin germ Staphylococcus aureus. This bacterium is on the skin of every person and does not cause any problems.

However, breastfeeding causes small tears in the sensitive skin of the nipple, thus providing an entry point for the bacteria. This leads to an inflammation of the female breast. Usually the inflammation is limited to only one quadrant, which is conspicuous by pain, redness, swelling of the breast and lymph nodes and overheating.

Breastfeeding should, however, be continued without fail so that there is no additional congestion. Nor does milk have to be discarded, as was taught in the past. Antibiotics are also not necessary in most cases.

If the fever lasts longer than one day, antibiotic therapy should be considered. If an abscess is suspected, i.e. an encapsulated area filled with pus, a gynaecologist should be consulted. These articles may also be of interest to you: Can I take a fever?