Childen's Hospital Boston  300 Longwood Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 355-6000
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My Child Has:
Mastitis
Programs that treat this condition
 Gynecology Program    Lactation Support Program  
 Adolescent/Young Adult Medical Practice  
What is mastitis?
Mastitis is often used interchangeably with the term breast infection, but mastitis may also be due to an inflammation. Often a reddened area is noted on the breast. Inflammatory or infectious mastitis may develop for reasons similar to those for plugged duct development, and the same interventions usually are helpful.

It is especially important to keep the affected breast "empty" through frequent breastfeeding. If you develop flu-like symptoms or your temperature increases to 100.4 degrees F or higher, call your physician. An antibiotic probably will be prescribed for 10 to 14 days. Be sure you take the entire course of the medication or you may experience a recurrence.

For more information go to the Center for Young Women's Health website.

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