Mastitis...but no fever or flu?

[Pogue909]

I stopped BFing my baby about 6 weeks ago - I weaned reasonably gradually (or so I thought). What I am left with is a very firm lump about the size of a tennis ball in my right boob. The boob is bruised and red all across the top and shape wise looks as though I have had botched cosmetic surgery. It is very tender and I find it difficult to carry my little girl .

I have been prescribed 3 different types of antibiotics (Flucloxacillin, Co-Amoxiclav & Metronidazole) and none have helped. I've done all the usual self-help tricks such as compresses, cabbage and massage.

What seems to have puzzled my GP is that I have never felt systemically ill. A little tired I guess but then again I do have a 3 month old! He suggested maybe I have an abscess but said I should be feeling rotten.

Monday I am back to the doctors and if the lump is still there I will be sent to the hospital for tests. I am now shitting myself that it is something more sinister. And though I know none of you can tell me all will be OK I just wondered has anyone experienced anything similar? Is it possible it could just be inflamed ducts, even after all these weeks? Whatever it is, it has not improved at all and my milk dried up weeks ago.

Thanks for reading!

Hi no i cant tell you everthin will be ok, but i can say i suffered with something really similar, i described the pain as worse than the birth itself

I didnt have a lump as such, more of the whole right side of 1 boob was hard, red, swollen albeit a little earlier after stopping BF than urself think wa was about 2-3 wks turned out ( after antibiotics) that is was blocked ducts that then got infected.

Did have a 2nd lot of pills from docs but in meantime massage and hot/cold compression helpd

Ive had it 3 times, twice without feeling ill. Blast your lump in the shower, make the water as hot as you can bear.

Well, i'm back from a day at the hospital! Biggest breast abscess the surgeon claimed to have seen but I bet he says that to all the girls. Had it drained today (about half a pint of gunk) and feeling tons better already. Surgeon thinks it will fill up again so I am back there Weds to have another ultrasound and aspiration. Fingers crossed I can avoid surgery.

Big relief that it is nothing more serious!

Fingers crossed