What is Mastitis?

Mastitis is an inflammatory condition of the breast tissue that commonly occurs during breastfeeding. It is often caused by milk that isn’t fully drained from the breast, leading to blocked ducts and inflammation.

Common causes include:

• Blocked milk ducts

• Inefficient latch or feeding position

• Long gaps between feeds

• Oversupply of milk

• Pressure on the breast (tight bras, sleeping position)

• Cracked or damaged nipples

Without treatment, mastitis may progress and cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue and severe breast pain.

Symptoms of Mastitis

You may be experiencing mastitis or a blocked duct if you notice:

• A painful lump or firm area in the breast

• Redness, swelling or warmth

• Breast tenderness or burning pain while feeding

• Flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches, fatigue)

• Reduced milk flow from the affected breast

If symptoms develop suddenly or worsen quickly, seeking treatment early can make recovery much faster.

How Ultrasound Helps Mastitis

Therapeutic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves delivered through a handheld device placed gently on the skin.

These sound waves create microscopic vibrations within the breast tissue that help:

• Reduce inflammation and swelling

• Improve blood circulation

• Encourage lymphatic drainage

• Soften thickened milk and unblock ducts

• Reduce pain and pressure in the breast

This treatment helps the milk ducts open and allows milk to flow more freely, often providing noticeable relief after just a few sessions.

Ultrasound therapy is safe, non-invasive and commonly used by physiotherapists for soft tissue conditions.

What to Expect During Treatment

Your appointment typically includes:

📋 Assessment

Your practitioner will discuss your symptoms, breastfeeding history and examine the affected breast.

✋ Therapeutic Ultrasound

A gel is applied to the skin and a small ultrasound device is moved over the blocked or inflamed area. The treatment is painless and usually takes only a few minutes.

⏩ Breast Drainage Guidance

After treatment, you may be encouraged to:

• Feed your baby

• Express milk

• Perform gentle lymphatic drainage techniques

These steps help clear the blockage while the tissue is relaxed.

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

Many mothers notice improvement after 1–3 sessions, although the exact number depends on the severity of the blockage or inflammation.

Early treatment usually leads to faster relief.

Additional Support for Mastitis

Along with ultrasound therapy, we may provide:

• Breastfeeding and positioning advice

• Gentle lymphatic drainage techniques

• Self-management strategies to reduce inflammation

• Advice on preventing recurrent blocked ducts

• Referral to lactation consultants or your GP if needed

Our goal is to help you recover quickly and support your breastfeeding journey.

When to Seek Help

You should seek professional support if:

• Symptoms persist longer than 24 hours

• Pain or swelling worsens

• You develop fever or flu-like symptoms

• A lump does not resolve after feeding or expressing

• A painful breast lump

• Blocked milk ducts that won’t clear

• Redness or swelling in the breast

• Recurrent mastitis

Prompt care can prevent complications and help you feel better sooner.