A recurring fever that you feel is associated with breastfeeding might be related to a breast infection called mastitis. Some people have temperatures that run slightly higher than the average 98.6 so you want to verify that you are not experiencing a normal temperature range for you. A fever should not be associated with breastfeeding unless there is a problem, so you should see your doctor so she can diagnose the cause.
About Mastitis
Mastitis is an infection of your breast tissue. It occurs when you have a break or crack in your nipple and bacteria enter your breast. When bacteria from your baby's mouth or the surface of your skin enter milk ducts, they can multiply and cause mastitis. You are more at risk for developing mastitis if you have cracked nipples; a history of getting mastitis during breastfeeding; you wear a tight-fitting bra restricting blood flow; or you don't completely drain both your breasts during a feeding, for example, your baby only feeds from one breast or you only use one position to breastfeed.
Symptoms
Symptoms of mastitis include breast tenderness and warmth; breast pain and swelling; a red area on the affected breast; swollen lymph nodes in the armpit of the affected side; a general ill feeling and a fever of 101 F or greater. Mastitis from breastfeeding usually occurs within the first several weeks and typically only develops on one side, according to Mayo Clinic. A recurring fever during breastfeeding might indicate you have had mastitis in the past, either with your current breastfeeding baby or another child.
Diagnosis and Treatment
There can be many reasons for a fever including viral and bacterial illnesses. Your doctor can usually diagnose mastitis based on your symptoms and breast appearance. If there is any doubt, she will likely perform appropriate tests to determine the cause of your fever. If a breast infection is recurrent, the doctor might culture a sample of milk. If the diagnosis is mastitis, a course of antibiotics usually treats the condition. In the meantime, you might find it soothing to apply moist heat to the affected area for 20 minutes four times daily.
Continuing to Breastfeed
You can continue to breastfeed when you have a fever, as you are passing on antibodies that help protect your baby from illness. You can even breastfeed when you have mastitis or are receiving antibiotic treatment for the condition. According to PubMed Health, continue to breastfeed or pump when you have mastitis to prevent breast engorgement.
