Should lactation be stopped when treating lactational mastitis?

Continuing lactation during the treatment of lactational mastitis is important for several reasons. Mastitis is often associated with inadequate milk drainage, which can lead to an accumulation of milk in the breast, exacerbating the infection and inflammation. Continuing to breastfeed or pump helps ensure that milk is effectively removed, reducing the risk of further complications.

Moreover, maintaining breastfeeding can help keep up milk supply, which is crucial for the baby's nutrition and the mother's breastfeeding goals. In addition, the act of breastfeeding can contribute to the healing process by allowing the milk flow to help clear the infection.

Antibiotics can be safely used while breastfeeding, making it feasible to treat the infection without needing to cease lactation. Stopping lactation could potentially prolong the condition, leading to more severe symptoms and increasing the risk of abscess formation. Therefore, the recommendation is to continue breastfeeding or pumping throughout treatment to promote healing and prevent complications.