Is it safe for a newborn to feed from a breast that has mastitis?

Is it safe for a newborn to feed from a breast that has mastitis?

• A. No, it is contraindicated
• B. Only with expressed milk
• C. Yes, because the newborn has the mother's skin flora
• D. Only if baby is formula-fed

Answer: (C)

Breastfeeding during mastitis is safe and encouraged. Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue, not a problem with the milk itself, so feeding from the affected breast does not harm the infant. The baby benefits from the milk’s immune factors and from being exposed to the mother’s normal skin flora, which helps establish healthy gut bacteria. Continuing to feed on the affected side can also help relieve milk stasis and support recovery, especially when the mother is using antibiotics that are safe for breastfeeding and there’s no abscess or severe illness. In short, there’s no need to avoid the affected breast or switch to formula; feeding can continue with appropriate treatment and precautions.

Breastfeeding during mastitis is safe and encouraged. Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue, not a problem with the milk itself, so feeding from the affected breast does not harm the infant. The baby benefits from the milk’s immune factors and from being exposed to the mother’s normal skin flora, which helps establish healthy gut bacteria. Continuing to feed on the affected side can also help relieve milk stasis and support recovery, especially when the mother is using antibiotics that are safe for breastfeeding and there’s no abscess or severe illness. In short, there’s no need to avoid the affected breast or switch to formula; feeding can continue with appropriate treatment and precautions.