In severe cases of infectious mastitis, an abscess can develop in the breast.
A breast abscess is a painful collection of pus that forms in the breast, just under the skin.
As well as causing a painful lump to develop, a breast abscess may also:
- be red
- feel hot
- cause the skin over it to swell
- cause a high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above
The abscess can be treated using a needle or a small incision to drain the pus out of your breast.
Read more about breast abscesses.
One study found that 3 out of 100 women who were treated for mastitis with antibiotics (medication to treat infections caused by bacteria) developed an abscess. Some different research estimated that 1 in 10 women who develop an abscess may be unable to breastfeed again.
