What is the initial treatment recommendation for mastitis?

The initial treatment recommendation for mastitis typically emphasizes simple breast care and milk expression. This approach is crucial because it helps to relieve breast engorgement and allows for continued milk flow, which can help clear the infection. Regular milk expression, whether through breastfeeding or pumping, is essential to ensure that the infected breast is adequately drained.

This method not only promotes healing by reducing inflammation and discomfort but also encourages ongoing milk production, which is important for both the mother and the infant. Providing education on proper breastfeeding techniques and ensuring the infant is latched correctly can help prevent future occurrences as well.

While antibiotics may be necessary later on if there is no improvement or if symptoms escalate, the initial management should focus on self-care and promoting effective milk expression to address the underlying issue. Other options like topical creams or surgical interventions are generally not recommended as first-line treatments for mastitis, as they do not address the primary cause of the condition or promote effective drainage of the breast.