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| Main > Breastfeeding Center > Breastfeeding Problems
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Breast Abscesses
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| Sometimes, mastitis can lead to a breast abscess, which is an infection of the breast that can cause the build up of pus within the breast. It can also cause flu-like symptoms, including fatigue, headache, fever, chills, nausea and vomiting. It also causes the affected breast to be red, swollen and tender. It should be suspected in women being treated for mastitis who do not get better in a few days. The main treatments include drainage of the abscess by your doctor and antibiotics.
The main treatments for breast abscesses include:
- rest
- increased fluids for mom
- continue feedings on the unaffected breast only (it is usually best to discontinue breastfeeding from the affected breast until it is properly treated and drained, although you should continue pumping and discarding the milk to maintain your supply)
- often 10-14 days of antibiotics are prescribed to treat this infection.
Breastfeeding Resources:
- When Latching: a great guide to latching on effectively when breastfeeding, with pictures and step by step instructions.
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