What to do about fever during lactation
Jul 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, fever during lactation may be caused by factors such as postpartum physical weakness, inflammation due to breast engorgement, upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, or acute mastitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general treatment, medication, or other methods under a doctor's guidance. Daily attention should be given to personal hygiene, frequent handwashing, and avoiding crowded places.
Generally, fever during lactation may be caused by postpartum physical weakness, inflammation due to milk engorgement, upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, acute mastitis, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general treatment, medication, and other methods under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Postpartum physical weakness: After childbirth, the body has not fully recovered and the resistance is relatively weak, making it susceptible to external factors leading to fever, accompanied by fatigue and sweating. It is important to ensure sufficient rest, avoid overexertion, drink plenty of warm water to stay hydrated, maintain a light and nutritious diet (e.g., chicken soup, vegetable porridge) to aid recovery, and use warm water to wipe the forehead and armpits for cooling in cases of mild fever.
2. Inflammation caused by milk engorgement: Milk stasis can lead to blocked milk ducts, causing localized inflammation and fever, accompanied by breast swelling, pain, and hard lumps. Excess milk should be promptly removed using a breast pump. After breastfeeding, clean the nipples with warm water to avoid residual milk. Allow the infant to empty one breast before switching to the other to reduce stasis.
3. Upper respiratory tract infection: Viral or bacterial infections can cause cold symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications like Isatidis Radix Granules, Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid, or Shuanghuanglian Oral Liquid. Breastfeeding can continue during treatment; wear a mask while nursing to prevent transmission to the infant.
4. Urinary tract infection: Poor hygiene during lactation can lead to bacterial infection of the urinary tract, causing fever, frequent urination, and painful urination. Patients should follow medical advice to take medications such as Cefaclor Capsules, Nitrofurantoin Enteric-coated Tablets, or Fosfomycin Trometamol Powder. Drinking plenty of water helps promote urination.
5. Acute mastitis: Bacterial infection of the breast can cause acute inflammation, presenting with high fever, redness, swelling, and pain in the breast. Patients should follow medical advice to take antibiotics such as Penicillin V Potassium Tablets, Cefradine Capsules, or Amoxicillin Capsules to combat the infection.
In daily life, maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands frequently, and avoid crowded places. Dress appropriately according to temperature changes to prevent colds, and maintain a positive mindset. With proper care and treatment, both fever symptoms and normal breastfeeding can be managed effectively.
