What is the most common cause of breast infection?

Understanding Breast Infections: The Most Common Causes
Breast infections, medically known as mastitis, are a significant health concern, particularly among women of reproductive age. These infections can occur in both lactating and non-lactating women, but the most prevalent form is lactational mastitis, which primarily affects breastfeeding mothers.
The Role of Bacteria
The most common cause of breast infections is bacterial invasion, with Staphylococcus aureus being the leading culprit. This bacterium is typically found on the skin and can enter the breast tissue through cracks or sores in the nipple, often exacerbated by the physical demands of breastfeeding. When a mother breastfeeds, the nipples can become sore or cracked, creating an entry point for bacteria from the baby’s mouth, which can lead to infection .
In addition to Staphylococcus aureus, other bacteria, including coagulase-negative Staphylococci, can also contribute to breast infections. These bacteria thrive in the warm, moist environment of the breast, particularly when there is an obstruction in the milk ducts or when the ducts become engorged due to hyperlactation or an oversupply of milk.
Symptoms and Impact
Women experiencing mastitis often report symptoms such as breast pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in the affected area. These symptoms can be distressing and may lead to complications if not treated promptly. In severe cases, mastitis can progress to the formation of a breast abscess, which is a collection of pus that requires medical intervention .
Preventive Measures
To mitigate the risk of developing a breast infection, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to maintain proper breastfeeding techniques, ensure regular milk drainage, and care for any nipple soreness promptly. Keeping the nipples clean and dry can also help prevent bacterial entry.
In summary, while breast infections can affect any woman, the most common cause is bacterial infection, particularly from Staphylococcus aureus, often linked to the challenges of breastfeeding. Awareness and proactive care are essential in preventing and managing this condition effectively.

Why would you get an infection in your breast?

The most common type of breast infection is lactational mastitis. This happens when a woman is breastfeeding. The nipples become cracked and sore. This allows bacteria from the baby’s mouth to enter the ducts and rapidly multiply in the milk.

What is the solution for breast infection?

Mastitis treatment might involve: Antibiotics. If you have an infection, a 10-day course of antibiotics is most often needed.

Can wearing a bra cause breast infection?

A good latch may help with mastitis because your body can naturally adjust your milk production to your baby’s milk intake. People who are breastfeeding can also take these steps to lower their chances of getting mastitis: Don’t wear tight-fitting bras. Avoid using nipple shells or other devices on your breasts.

Can dirty hands cause mastitis?

Hand hygiene is important for everyone, but especially mothers. Your hands can be a source of bacteria that can cause mastitis. Be sure to wash your hands and your breastfeeding equipment before breastfeeding or milk expressions.

Can a breast infection mean cancer?

If your doctor diagnoses mastitis but the infection does not improve or worsens, follow up with another appointment. Mastitis that does not respond to antibiotics could actually be inflammatory breast cancer. Your doctor can schedule an imaging test or a biopsy to diagnose or rule out cancer.

Can poor hygiene cause breast infection?

Breast Care: Proper breast hygiene is essential in preventing mastitis. Keep your nipples clean and dry between feedings. If you experience cracked or sore nipples, use a lanolin cream or consult a lactation consultant for support. You should also avoid tight bras or clothing that can put pressure on the breasts.

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.

What does cellulitis look like on your breast?

When breast cellulitis develops, a person will often notice an inflamed rash around the bottom of their breast that feels warm to the touch. The rash may appear red or pink on lighter skin tones, or purple, brown, or another dark color on darker skin tones. The rash can spread quickly to other areas of the body.

What does bacterial infection on breast look like?

Swelling, tenderness, and warmth in breast tissue. Skin redness, most often in wedge shape.

What is the drug of choice for breast infection?

MSRA breast abscesses
If Community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) is suspected or confirmed, or in a patient with a penicillin allergy, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (160/800 mg orally twice daily), doxycycline (100 mg orally twice daily), or clindamycin (150–300 mg orally four times daily) can be used.