Mastitis is breast inflammation that can occur during breastfeeding and may happen with or without infection. Many people look for ways to ease breast soreness, manage mild fever, and continue feeding or expressing comfortably. This page provides guidance on symptom support and highlights pharmacy products commonly used for comfort, including pain relief tablets, topical gels, first aid essentials, and baby care items, while emphasising when to seek professional advice.
Early self-care may help: rest when possible, maintain milk flow with comfortable feeding or expressing, and use gentle warmth before feeds and cool compresses afterwards. Seek advice from a pharmacist, GP, midwife, health visitor, or breastfeeding support professional if you develop a fever, feel unwell, symptoms worsen, redness spreads, you suspect an abscess (for example, a persistent painful lump), or you are not improving within 12–24 hours.
Shop by mastitis support type
Popular mastitis support products
- Paracetamol tablets/caplets for pain and mild fever relief (check label for suitability)
- Ibuprofen tablets/caplets for pain and inflammation where appropriate
- Soluble/effervescent pain relief for fast-dissolving, easy-to-take options
- Combination pain relief for moderate discomfort (check active ingredients carefully)
- Topical gels and creams for general aches
How to choose the right option
- Check suitability: if you’re breastfeeding, pregnant, have a long-term condition, or take other medicines, ask a pharmacist first
- Avoid duplication: do not take two products containing the same active ingredient (especially paracetamol)
- Consider health history: anti-inflammatory medicines may not be suitable for certain stomach, kidney, asthma, or allergy conditions
- Choose a format you can take correctly: tablets, soluble options, gels, or creams
- Use the lowest effective dose: follow pack directions and seek advice if symptoms persist
- Escalate when needed: fever, worsening symptoms, spreading redness, abscess, or no improvement within 12–24 hours requires professional advice
Quick links: common needs
FAQs
Can I continue breastfeeding or expressing with mastitis?
Many people can continue breastfeeding or expressing; keeping milk moving may help with comfort. If feeding is very painful, you feel unwell, or latch/supply is a concern, seek advice from a pharmacist, midwife, health visitor, GP, or breastfeeding support professional.
How quickly should symptoms improve?
If symptoms are not improving within 12–24 hours, or are worsening, contact a healthcare professional promptly.
What warning signs require urgent help?
Seek urgent advice if you have a high temperature, feel very unwell, redness is spreading, pain is severe, or you suspect an abscess. Non-breastfeeding individuals with similar symptoms should also seek medical advice.
Do I always need antibiotics for mastitis?
Not always. Some cases resolve with self-care, while others require clinical assessment. A clinician can advise based on your symptoms, especially if you’re unwell or not improving.
What should I check before buying pain relief?
Check the label for active ingredients, dosing, and suitability. Be cautious with other medicines or health conditions, and ask a pharmacist if unsure.
How do I avoid taking too much paracetamol?
Check all products you are taking, as some cold and flu remedies contain paracetamol. Avoid multiple products with the same ingredient and follow the maximum daily dose.
Safety information: This content is general information and not a diagnosis or substitute for medical advice. Mastitis can require clinical assessment. Seek professional advice if symptoms are severe, worsening, you have a fever, suspect an abscess, or are not improving within 12–24 hours. Always read labels and follow dosing directions.
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