Abstract

This descriptive study of 31 women diagnosed with lactation mastitis in the midwestern United States investigated mastitis symptomatology, self-care and treatment, burden of mastitis, and symptom recurrence and complications. Data collected via telephone interviews soon after diagnosis and daily through the seventh day after symptom onset documented that symptom intensity was moderate, peaked on the second day, and lasted on average 3 to 4 days. Symptoms had greater impact on activities of daily living than on breastfeeding. Sources of advice for self-care included lactation consultants, nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians, family, and friends. Continued breastfeeding was the most frequently used of several self-care practices and was rated as highly effective. Follow-up at 2 and 6 weeks established mastitis recurrence as the most common complication. Breastfeeding women need specific information about mastitis causes, symptoms, and self-care strategies to help prevent and treat the condition.