Causes of mastitis in non breastfeeding women its types and how to deal with it easily

Mastitis in non-breastfeeding women is a health issue that affects many women and often causes significant anxiety and discomfort. Although mastitis is commonly associated with breastfeeding, it can also occur in women who are not nursing, due to a variety of reasons. Understanding the causes and different types of this condition is the first step toward managing it effectively—whether through medical treatment or preventive measures.In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of mastitis in non-breastfeeding women, explain in simple and clear terms the different types of breast inflammation, and provide the best treatment and management options to help you recover quickly and avoid complications.Follow along with Dallily Medical to discover everything you need to understand this condition and deal with it confidently and knowledgeably.

What Is Mastitis?

Mastitis is an inflammation or infection that affects the milk glands inside the breast. These glands are mainly responsible for producing milk in breastfeeding women. They consist of a network of small glands and ducts that carry milk to the nipple.

When one of these ducts becomes blocked or bacteria enter the breast tissue, inflammation occurs. This causes swelling, pain, redness, and often an increase in the size of the breast.

How Do Milk Glands Change During Puberty?

When a girl reaches puberty, female hormones such as estrogen and progesterone begin to play a big role in changing the structure of the breasts.

Estrogen stimulates the growth of the milk glands and ducts inside the breast, making them branch out like a small tree within the breast tissue.

Progesterone increases the division of the glandular cells, causing the glands to expand and enlarge.

At the same time, fat begins to accumulate around the milk glands to support and protect them.

All of these changes are part of preparing the breast for its future function—milk production during breastfeeding.

Changes in the Breasts During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, major changes take place in the body, especially in the breasts and the milk glands inside them. These glands are relatively inactive before pregnancy, but hormonal changes during pregnancy greatly affect their activity.

As pregnancy progresses, the fat layer in the breast starts to be replaced with new tissues like blood vessels, glandular tissues, and supporting tissues that prepare the breast for milk production.

Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin increase. Estrogen and progesterone work together to prevent prolactin from producing milk until the end of pregnancy.

In the last stages of pregnancy, the milk glands begin to produce a small amount of colostrum—an early form of milk that is rich in antibodies and nutrients essential for the baby’s immune system.

Changes in Milk Glands After Birth

After childbirth, progesterone levels drop significantly, allowing prolactin to take over and stimulate the milk glands to produce milk.

In the first few days after birth, milk production increases, and the baby starts nursing. Every time the baby empties the breast, the body sends signals to refill it before the next feeding.

This cycle continues with every feeding session to ensure a consistent milk supply for the baby.

What Happens to Milk Glands After Weaning?

When a mother weans her baby and stops breastfeeding, the milk-producing cells in the glands go through a process called programmed cell death. The body naturally eliminates these cells, and the gland’s activity gradually decreases.

How Milk Glands Change With Age

As a woman ages and enters menopause, significant changes occur in the milk glands. The glandular cells start turning into fibrous tissue (denser and tougher tissue), and the gland cells gradually break down.

As a result, the size of the milk glands decreases, and their ability to produce milk disappears completely. This is a natural part of the aging process in women.

Who Is More Likely to Develop Mastitis?

Mastitis can affect anyone, but certain groups of people are more at risk due to specific conditions. If you fall into one of these categories, you can take extra precautions to prevent it before it occurs. Here are the groups most at risk:

Breastfeeding women:
The most common group affected by mastitis, especially during the first weeks of breastfeeding. The main causes are blocked milk ducts or bacterial entry through nipple cracks.
Non-breastfeeding women:
Mastitis can occur in women of reproductive age or postmenopause, often due to hormonal changes or the presence of benign breast cysts or tumors.
Smokers:
Smoking negatively affects breast tissue and increases the risk of chronic or recurring inflammation.
People with weak immune systems:
Such as those with diabetes or individuals taking corticosteroids or other immune-suppressing medications—they're more vulnerable to infections.
Women with a history of mastitis:
If you’ve had mastitis before, you're more likely to experience it again, either in the same area or elsewhere in the breast.
Poor hygiene during breastfeeding:
Not washing hands before touching the breast or not cleaning nipples regularly can allow bacteria to enter and cause infection.
Cracked or wounded nipples:
Cracks or sores can be an entry point for bacteria, especially with frequent nursing, increasing the risk of mastitis.
Wearing tight or uncomfortable bras:
Pressure on the breast from ill-fitting bras can block milk ducts, leading to inflammation.
Family history of breast infections:
If other women in your family have experienced breast infections, you might have a genetic tendency toward the condition.
Sudden weaning:
When breastfeeding stops abruptly, milk can build up in the breast, causing blockages and inflammation.
Not fully emptying the breast during feeding:
Irregular breastfeeding or a baby who doesn't nurse well can cause milk to accumulate and increase the risk of mastitis.

Types of Mastitis and Their Classifications

Mastitis isn’t just one type of condition—it comes in different forms, and each has its own causes and symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at the main types and how to differentiate between them:

1. Acute Mastitis

This is the most common type. It appears suddenly and is usually severe. It mainly affects breastfeeding women due to blocked milk ducts or bacteria entering through cracked nipples.
Symptoms: Intense breast pain, redness, swelling, and fever.
If left untreated, it can develop into an abscess that needs urgent medical attention.

2. Chronic Mastitis

A long-lasting or recurrent inflammation that’s less severe than acute mastitis but can cause ongoing issues in the breast. It often results from persistent blockages in the milk ducts.

3. Granulomatous Mastitis

A rare and chronic type characterized by the presence of lumps or nodules in the breast. It's usually caused by an immune or allergic reaction and may resemble a tumor during examination, but it's actually an inflammation.

4. Chemical Mastitis

This occurs due to irritation of the milk ducts from chemicals or cosmetic products. It’s a non-bacterial inflammation caused by a skin reaction to these substances.

5. Nonlactational Mastitis

This affects women who are not breastfeeding. It’s often linked to skin conditions, duct blockages, or hormonal changes. The symptoms are similar to acute mastitis but unrelated to nursing.

6. Ischemic Mastitis

This rare type happens when blood flow is reduced to a specific area of the breast, leading to localized pain and inflammation. It’s associated with blood vessel issues or continuous pressure on the breast.

7. Infectious Mastitis

This type results from bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. The infection may enter through a wound or skin crack. The symptoms are intense and require prompt treatment to avoid complications.

8. Autoimmune Mastitis

In rare cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks breast tissue, causing chronic inflammation with lumps or swelling that may mimic a tumor.

9. Hormonal Mastitis

Triggered by hormonal changes such as pregnancy, menstruation, or hormone therapy. It causes breast pain and swelling due to hormonal effects on the mammary glands.

Causes and Symptoms of Mastitis in Non-Breastfeeding Women

Mastitis can also affect women who are not breastfeeding, and it has different causes and clear symptoms that require attention. Here's what you need to know:

Common Causes of Mastitis in Non-Breastfeeding Women

Bacterial Infection
Bacteria may enter through a small wound or cracks around the nipple and lead to inflammation of the mammary glands.
Blocked Milk Ducts
Even in non-lactating women, some milk ducts may remain slightly active, causing blockages and inflammation.
Hormonal Changes
Changes during menstruation or menopause can affect breast tissue and trigger inflammation.
Smoking
Smoking weakens the immune system and damages breast tissue, increasing the risk of chronic infections.
Nipple Piercing
Those with nipple piercings are more exposed to bacterial infections leading to inflammation.
Weak Immune System
Individuals with diabetes or those taking immunosuppressive medications are more vulnerable to infections and inflammation.
Previous Cyst or Abscess
Having had a breast cyst or abscess in the past increases the risk of inflammation recurring in the same area.
Continuous Pressure on the Breast
Sleeping on the stomach or wearing tight bras can block milk ducts and lead to inflammation.
Presence of a Tumor or Lump in the Breast
Both benign and malignant tumors can put pressure on milk ducts and cause inflammation or abscess formation.
Stress and Mental Pressure
Stress can affect the immune system, making the body less capable of fighting off infections.
Frequent Skin Infections
Skin infections around the nipple or under the breast can spread inward and cause internal inflammation.
Poor Breast Hygiene
Especially during hot weather or heavy sweating, lack of hygiene can lead to bacterial buildup and increase the risk of inflammation.
Hormonal Imbalance in Prolactin Secretion
In some cases, hormonal disorders may lead to milk production even in non-breastfeeding women, causing duct blockage and inflammation.

Symptoms of Mastitis in Non-Lactating Women

Pain or tenderness in a specific part of the breast, which worsens with touch or pressure.
Swelling and a noticeable heaviness or firmness in the affected area.
Redness and warmth of the skin over the inflamed area.
Unusual nipple discharge (may be yellow, green, or bloody).
Fever, which may be mild or high, depending on the severity of the inflammation.
General fatigue and tiredness due to the body fighting the infection.
Presence of a painful lump or abscess under the skin.
Changes in the nipple or skin such as flaking or noticeable changes in breast appearance.
Throbbing or pulsating sensation in the affected area due to pus collection.
Itching or irritation around the inflamed area.
Increased nipple sensitivity — even light touches can be painful.
Skin tightening or dimpling over the inflamed area, especially if the inflammation is deep.
The affected breast may appear larger than the other one.
Foul-smelling nipple discharge, such as pus odor.
Swollen lymph nodes under the armpit — you may feel small lumps as the body reacts to the infection.

How to Deal with the Different Types of Mastitis

1. Acute Mastitis

Treatment:

Use appropriate antibiotics as prescribed by a doctor.
Continue breastfeeding or pumping milk to avoid clogged ducts.
Take pain relievers and fever reducers like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Apply warm compresses to the breast to reduce pain and congestion.

Tips:

Keep the breast clean at all times.
See your doctor immediately if symptoms worsen or an abscess develops.

2. Chronic Mastitis

Treatment:

Long-term antibiotics as prescribed.
Additional tests may be needed to rule out other causes.
Regular medical follow-up for monitoring.

Tips:

Avoid applying strong pressure on the breast.
Maintain regular breastfeeding or pumping to prevent blockages.

3. Granulomatous Mastitis

Treatment:

Anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
Antibiotics if there's a secondary bacterial infection.
In some cases, surgery might be needed to remove lumps or nodules.

Tips:

Regular follow-up with your doctor is essential.
Avoid pressing or massaging the breast harshly.

4. Chemical Mastitis

Treatment:

Avoid chemical substances or irritants that trigger inflammation.
Use topical or oral anti-inflammatory medications as needed.

Tips:

Don’t use unknown or irritating products on your breasts.

5. Nonlactational Mastitis

Treatment:

Antibiotics based on the type of infection.
Pain relievers and warm compresses.
Regular check-ups to ensure improvement.

Tips:

Maintain good hygiene of the breast area.
Avoid skin injuries or scratches around the nipple.

6. Ischemic Mastitis

Treatment:

Address the underlying cause such as improving blood flow or relieving pressure.
Use pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Tips:

Avoid tight clothing.
Steer clear of activities that apply prolonged pressure on the breast.

7. Infectious Mastitis

Treatment:

Strong antibiotics according to the type of infection.
In some cases, hospitalization may be needed for monitoring and intensive treatment.

8. Autoimmune Mastitis

Treatment:

Immunosuppressive drugs or corticosteroids to reduce immune system activity.
Specific medications depending on the patient’s condition.

Tips:

Regular follow-ups with an immunology specialist.
Stick to the treatment plan and avoid immune triggers.

9. Hormonal Mastitis

Treatment:

Mostly supportive care and pain relievers.
In some cases, hormonal medications may be adjusted under medical supervision.

Tips:

Monitor hormonal changes closely with your doctor.
Avoid pressing or strongly massaging the breasts.

Top Prevention Tips for Mastitis in Non-Breastfeeding Women

1. Keep the breasts clean

Wash the breast area regularly with warm water and mild soap, especially in hot weather or after sweating, to prevent bacterial buildup.

2. Wear a comfortable, well-fitted bra

Avoid tight bras that may restrict blood flow or compress breast ducts.

3. Quit smoking

Smoking weakens the immune system and affects breast tissue health, increasing the risk of infections.

4. Avoid nipple injuries

If you have nipple piercings or cuts, clean them properly to prevent infection.

5. Perform monthly self-breast exams

Learn how to examine your breasts once a month to detect any changes early and consult your doctor if needed.

6. Treat skin conditions quickly

Conditions like boils or rashes on the chest or underarms should be treated promptly to avoid spreading to breast tissue.

7. Monitor abnormal nipple discharge

If you notice unusual discharge with odd color or smell, see a doctor immediately.

8. Boost your immunity

Eat healthy, drink enough water, get proper sleep, and reduce stress to support your immune system.

9. Avoid repeated pressure on the breasts

Don't sleep on your stomach for long or carry heavy bags over your chest to prevent clogging or congestion.

10. Wear breathable cotton clothing

Especially during summer, cotton helps reduce sweat and moisture, limiting bacterial growth.

11. Avoid strong creams or perfumes on the breast area

Use gentle, hypoallergenic products designed for sensitive skin.

12. Maintain a healthy weight

Excess weight increases friction and sweating under the breasts, encouraging inflammation.

13. Manage chronic diseases

Especially diabetes, as high blood sugar weakens the immune system and raises infection risk.

14. Exercise regularly

Light physical activity boosts circulation and strengthens immunity.

15. Reduce stress

Chronic stress can weaken your immune defenses and increase the likelihood of inflammation.

Risk Factors for Mastitis in Non-Breastfeeding Women

Smoking: Reduces blood flow to breast tissue and increases chronic inflammation.
Nipple piercings: Provide an entry point for bacteria.
Previous history of mastitis: May indicate an underlying issue if left untreated.
Weak immune system: Like in diabetics or those on immunosuppressants.
Recurring skin infections: Around the breast can spread to internal tissue.
Overweight or obesity: Leads to increased sweating and friction.
Wearing the wrong bra: Tight or synthetic bras may cause duct blockage or irritation.
Strong hormonal changes: Such as menopause or high prolactin levels.
Poor hygiene: Especially during summer or excessive sweating.
Excessive sweating and lack of ventilation: Encourage bacterial growth.
Random use of antibiotics: Disturbs the natural bacterial balance and weakens immunity.
Physical trauma to the breast: Can cause internal tissue inflammation.
Chronic infections in the body: Like sinusitis or urinary tract infections that lower general immunity.
Cysts or fatty lumps in the breast: Some may become inflamed.
Chronic stress: Lowers immune response.
Previous breast surgery: May leave scarring or blockages that raise inflammation risk.
Skin diseases on the chest: Like psoriasis or eczema that can introduce infection.

Medical Treatment for Mastitis

1. Antibiotics

Used when mastitis is caused by bacteria. Your doctor will prescribe a suitable antibiotic depending on the infection. Common options:

Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid
Cephalexin
Clindamycin (for penicillin-allergic patients)

2. Painkillers and antipyretics

Like paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve pain and reduce fever.

3. Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Help reduce swelling and redness, improving overall comfort.

Surgical Interventions for Mastitis

1. Incision and Drainage

If pus builds up into an abscess, the doctor may make a small cut to drain it. Usually done under local anesthesia, followed by wound care.

2. Complete abscess removal

In case of large or recurring abscesses, the entire abscess and some surrounding tissue might be removed.

3. Partial mastectomy

For chronic cases that don't respond to medication, part of the inflamed breast tissue may be surgically removed.

4. Needle aspiration

For small or moderate abscesses, pus can be drawn out with a fine needle, which is less invasive and heals faster.

5. Duct cleaning or widening

For recurrent blockages, the doctor may clean or widen milk ducts to facilitate fluid drainage.

6. Reconstructive surgery

If mastitis leads to breast deformity, surgical reconstruction may be needed post-recovery.

7. Duct excision

In chronic recurring mastitis, the affected ducts may be surgically removed to eliminate the source of infection.

8. Minimally invasive surgery

Advanced methods using cameras and micro tools to remove infected tissue with less scarring and faster recovery.

9. Total mastectomy

Rarely needed but may be required for severe or repeated chronic mastitis. Complete removal of breast tissue is the last resort.

10. Immediate breast reconstruction

After partial or total breast removal, reconstruction using skin grafts or tissue flaps can restore appearance.

11. Microsurgery

Highly precise surgery using microscopes and fine tools to repair delicate breast ducts or tissues damaged during mastitis treatment.

12. Advanced soft tissue surgery

For scarred or deformed breast tissue, advanced surgery removes damaged areas and reconstructs the breast to restore function and appearance.

Which Doctors Treat Mastitis in Non-Breastfeeding Women?

Gynecologist: Often the first to evaluate breast issues in women.
Dermatologist: Helps if skin conditions are involved or mastitis affects the skin around the breast.
General surgeon: Handles surgical interventions like abscess drainage or gland removal.
Pulmonologist or Radiologist: May assist in imaging diagnostics such as ultrasound or mammography.