Your GP should be able diagnose mastitis based on a physical examination of your breast and by asking you about your symptoms.
As mastitis is usually the result of problems with breastfeeding, your GP or midwife may ask you to demonstrate your breastfeeding technique. You should not feel as if you are being tested or blamed. Breastfeeding can take time and practice to get right and sometimes you may need advice.
Breast milk sample
In some cases, your GP may take a small sample of your breast milk for further testing. This may be necessary if:
- you have severe mastitis
- you have been treated with antibiotics (medication to treat infections that are caused by bacteria) but they have not improved your condition
- you have had repeated episodes of mastitis
Your breast milk can be tested to determine whether you have a bacterial infection and to identify the particular bacteria that is responsible. This can help to determine your treatment.
Bacteria
Bacteria are tiny, single-celled organisms that live in the body. Some can cause illness and disease and some are good for you.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are medicines that can be used to treat infections caused by micro-organisms, usually bacteria or fungi.
