What doctor to see if you think you have mastitis?

Understanding Mastitis and When to Seek Help
Mastitis is a painful condition that typically affects breastfeeding individuals, characterized by inflammation of the breast tissue. It can lead to infection, causing symptoms such as swelling, redness, warmth, and pain in the affected breast. In some cases, fever and flu-like symptoms may also occur. If you suspect you have mastitis, knowing which healthcare professional to consult is crucial for effective treatment.
Primary Care Provider
The first step in addressing suspected mastitis is to consult your primary care doctor. They can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether you have mastitis or another condition. If your symptoms include persistent pain, swelling, or fever, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection, especially if symptoms do not improve within a couple of days.
Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN)
If you are a breastfeeding mother, your OB-GYN is another excellent resource. They specialize in women’s health and can provide targeted care for conditions related to pregnancy and postpartum issues, including mastitis. An OB-GYN can assess your symptoms, offer treatment options, and guide you on breastfeeding practices that may help alleviate the condition.
Lactation Consultant
In addition to medical professionals, a lactation consultant can be invaluable in managing mastitis. These specialists focus on breastfeeding issues and can help identify potential causes of mastitis, such as improper latching or ineffective milk removal. They can provide practical advice on breastfeeding techniques and may suggest strategies to prevent future occurrences. If your symptoms are mild and have not persisted for more than 12-24 hours, reaching out to a lactation consultant first may be beneficial.
Urgent Care or Walk-in Clinics
If you experience severe symptoms, such as high fever or significant pain, visiting an urgent care clinic or a walk-in clinic may be necessary. These facilities can provide immediate care and prescribe antibiotics if needed.
Conclusion
In summary, if you suspect you have mastitis, start by consulting your primary care doctor or OB-GYN. They can provide a diagnosis and treatment plan. Additionally, consider reaching out to a lactation consultant for support with breastfeeding practices. Prompt attention to symptoms can lead to effective treatment and a quicker recovery, allowing you to continue your breastfeeding journey with confidence.

Do you see an Obgyn or GP for mastitis?

Mastitis can go away on its own, but contact our OBGYNs if you begin to have more pain, any changes to your breast, or a spike in fever. Your physician may prescribe an antibiotic to knock out the infection.

Should I pump if I suspect mastitis?

Risk factors for mastitis
However, current research shows that this actually makes engorgement worse. Emptying your breast more than usual (pumping or feeding) will only lead to more milk production and further aggravate the inflammation.

What kind of doctor can diagnose mastitis?

If you have a painful area in your breast that doesn’t resolve after 24 hours, make a call to your OB GYN. In addition to a painful area of the breast, signs of mastitis can include: Redness and swelling. Warm to the touch.

What can be mistaken for mastitis?

Inflammatory breast cancer is often confused with an infection of the breast (mastitis). Mastitis is common in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your GP might give you a course of antibiotics if they think that your symptoms could be due to mastitis.

How to tell clogged duct vs mastitis?

Plugged duct symptoms progress gradually, and can include pain, a hard lump, a warm and painful localized spot or a wedge-shaped area of engorgement on the breast. Mastitis symptoms appear rapidly and include flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue and body aches.

Should I go to urgent care if I think I have mastitis?

Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if: Your symptoms do not get better within 24 hours. Any part of your breast becomes increasingly red, painful, swollen, or hot. You have a new or higher fever.

Who do I see if I think I have mastitis?

A GP will usually prescribe antibiotics if you have mastitis and your symptoms are not getting better. If you’re breastfeeding a very small amount of the antibiotic may go into your breast milk. There is no risk to your baby, but it might make them irritable and restless.

What does early mastitis look like?

Hard lumps on your breast. Red marks on your breast. Flu-like symptoms, including fever and chills if mastitis infection occurs.

Who to call if I think I have mastitis?

If you have any signs of mastitis, or if you do not feel better within 24 hours of trying the tips for relief, contact your doctor. The same tips for plugged ducts may help with mastitis. Apply ice, get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids, and breastfeed often. In addition, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Can my gynecologist check my breast?

Your ob-gyn or other health care professional may examine your breasts during routine checkups. This is called a clinical breast exam. The exam may be done while you are lying down or sitting up. The breasts are checked for any changes in size or shape, puckers, dimples, or redness of the skin.