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Mastitis - Breast Infection
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
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Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the infection?
A woman can lower her risk for a breast infection by:
What are the long-term effects of the infection?
Long-term effects depend upon the underlying cause. For breast-feeding women with mastitis, the condition usually clears quickly with antibiotic medicine. All of the prescribed antibiotic should be taken as directed to keep the infection from returning later.
A severe breast infection can lead to the development of a breast abscess, or collection of pus. A breast abscess might need to be drained surgically. In this instance, the woman might be advised to discontinue breast-feeding.