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Breast Abcess
Occasionally mastitis can develop into a breast abscess, although rare. This is a localized infection that may need surgical intervention. Sometimes the abscess may need to be opened and drained by your physician.
What should you do?
- Continue to breastfeed on the unaffected side. If the incision is far enough away from the nipple you may be able to breastfeed from both breasts. Each situation is individualized. If you can breastfeed without causing yourself pain then it is usually OK to do so.
- If you cannot breastfeed it is important to keep that breast empty. You can pump or hand express for a few days until you are able to latch baby comfortably. Breastmilk removal from this breast is imperative to prevent further breast complications and reduction of your milk supply.
