What is a common symptom of lactational mastitis?

Lactational mastitis commonly presents with a firm and swollen area on the breast. This condition occurs when bacteria enter the breast tissue, often through a cracked nipple, leading to inflammation and infection. The affected breast tissue typically becomes engorged, resulting in localized swelling and tenderness that can be quite painful.

The other symptoms you may find—such as fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms—are not explicitly listed in the options, but they can accompany the firm and swollen area, which is indicative of infection. The other choices, such as painful urination, joint pain, and severe headaches, do not relate to the mammary glands or breastfeeding and thus are not typical symptoms of lactational mastitis. Understanding lactational mastitis helps in the early recognition and prompt treatment, preventing complications for breastfeeding mothers.