What should be the initial management for non-severe lactational mastitis?

The initial management for non-severe lactational mastitis focuses on symptomatic treatment and encouraging continued breastfeeding. This approach is essential because mastitis typically arises due to milk stasis and infection in the breast tissue, and continuing breastfeeding helps to relieve the engorgement, promote drainage of the milk, and effectively reduce the risk of worsening inflammation or infection.

Symptomatic treatment may include analgesics to relieve pain, applying warm compresses to the affected area to promote comfort and drainage, and ensuring proper breastfeeding techniques to prevent further blockage and support the health of the breast tissue. Continued breastfeeding or pumping milk helps maintain milk flow and can significantly alleviate the symptoms of mastitis while also providing relief for the affected area.

This management strategy emphasizes the importance of maintaining normal breastfeeding practices, which not only helps with recovery but also supports the breastfeeding relationship between mother and child. In most cases, immediate surgical intervention, bra support, or reliance solely on antibiotics are not indicated at this initial stage, as they do not address the underlying cause of lactational mastitis as effectively as maintaining milk flow and treating symptoms.