This is a bacterial infection, usually caused by organisms known as Staphylococcus aureus. They are harbored in the nasopharynx of babies and during breastfeeding, they find their way through the cracks in the nipples into the tissues. The ducts can get blocked and therefore cause stasis and further ascending infection. Initially, there is mastitis. In this stage, the patient complains of pain, swelling, redness and may have a fever with chills.

Patient requires antibiotic support, anti-inflammatory medication, and local care in the form of ice fomentation, cold compresses with glycerine and magnesium sulfate and cold cabbage leaves. Breastfeeding should be continued during this. It is protective to prevent further progression of the infection.