4 Simple Ways to Help Prevent Mastitis
Mastitis can feel like a dark cloud over your breastfeeding journey—but the good news is, with a little intention and support, it’s often preventable.
Mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue that sometimes involves an infection. It can cause redness, swelling, pain, and warmth in the breast, often accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and fatigue.
If you’ve had it before, you know how rough it can be. If you haven’t, we hope these tips help keep it that way.
Here are four gentle ways to help prevent mastitis and keep your nursing journey as smooth as possible:
breastfeed frequently and make sure baby is latching well
Nursing or pumping regularly helps prevent milk stasis (when milk sits too long in the breast), one of the major contributors to mastitis.
A deep, effective latch ensures milk is being removed efficiently—and keeps your body from getting backed up and inflamed.
offer both breasts at each feeding
Switching sides during feeds helps both breasts stay active and drained. It also helps balance your milk supply and reduces the chances of one side getting engorged or clogged.
You don’t need to stress if baby only takes one side sometimes—just aim to rotate and stay consistent. Try keeping a quick note in your phone or switching a ponytail holder from wrist to wrist after each feed—it’s a simple way to remember which breast you nursed on last so you can start with the other side next time.
avoid tight-fitting bras or tops
Compression can block milk flow, especially in those early weeks when your supply is still regulating. Think stretchy, soft, and supportive—nothing digging or pressing into your breast tissue. You deserve to be cozy.
Take sunflower lecithin
This supplement can help reduce the stickiness of your breast milk, making it easier to flow and less likely to get clogged. It’s often recommended for moms who’ve experienced frequent plugged ducts.
As always, chat with your healthcare provider before adding anything new.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
If you notice signs like a red, hot, swollen area on your breast, or if you feel achy and feverish like you're coming down with the flu—don’t wait.
Mastitis often needs antibiotics and early treatment is key to avoiding complications. You are not overreacting. You are caring for yourself, which helps you care for your baby.
YOU’RE NOT ALONE — WE CAN HELP
Whether you're preparing during pregnancy, navigating those early feeds, or dealing with clogged ducts—we're here for you.
Book a Lactation Consultation with our IBCLC (we offer prenatal, postnatal, and virtual options!)
Download our Lactation Guide: The New Mom’s Guide to Breastfeeding Success – a $4.99 PDF created by our team to help you feel informed and empowered. It includes:
Benefits of breastfeeding
Tips to get started
Breastfeeding positions
Latching guidance
Nipple care
Flange sizing guide
Help for engorgement and mastitis
Diet tips
Milk storage guidelines
Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth, breastfeeding is a learning curve for everyone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone. We're here to walk with you through the bumps, questions, and tender moments.
For more tips, explore our other blogs or follow us on Instagram at @choosejoynursing.
