Mastitis can quickly ramp up the stress ofpost-partum life and having a new baby.
You may chalk up your symptoms to fatigue and the post-partum journey.
But what exactly is mastitis?

It is most often caused bybreastfeedinga newborn, and commonly materializes within the first six months of nursing.
Left untreated, mastitis can cause a breast abscess.
The illness must therefore be treated immediately by a doctor, as recommended by theCleveland Clinic.

As pointed out byHealthline, your doctor might recommend that you take over-the-counter pain medications to reduce symptoms.
On top of medication, Healthline and theC.S.
Mott Children Hospitalhave some helpful tips that could make dealing with mastitis a little easier.
First up is essential oil.
Try applying an essential oil, such as tea tree oil, to the outside of the breast.
Tea tree oil is antibacterial and will most likely help with inflammation.
you might also try wrapping the breast in both hot and cold compresses.
Contrary to what you may have thought, it’s important to continue breastfeeding if you have mastitis.
Emptying your breasts regularly will help clear milk ducts.
Plus, your milk is safe for your baby to consume even if you have a breast infection.