Risk factors and management of severe bacterial lactational mastitis in hospitalized postpartum women

Abstract

Introduction: Breastfeeding is vital for maternal and child health; however, complications such as lactational mastitis can jeopardize this process, being one of the main causes of early weaning. Objective: To describe the risk factors associated with the management of severe lactational mastitis in hospitalized postpartum women in the city of Parnaíba - PI, Brazil. Methodology: A descriptive, cross-sectional, and quantitative study, conducted with 8 women hospitalized for bacterial mastitis between October 2024 and October 2025. A structured questionnaire was used, including the Nipple Trauma Score ((Nipple Trauma Score - NTS) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The research was approved by the Ethics Committee (Opinion 6,547,209). Results: The mean age was 25.62 years. Primiparity (62.5%) and lack of prenatal guidance (75%) predominated. A mean delay of 5.67 days was observed in seeking care, with a predominant use of inadequate thermal methods (warm compresses in 87.5%). The mean pain score was 9.87 (VAS). Severe complications such as abscess and necrosis reached 100% of the sample, with a mean hospital stay of 12.12 days. Discussion: The findings converge with current literature, showing that technical inexperience and incorrect initial management (local heat) exacerbate the inflammatory condition. The failure of early detection in primary care contributed to bacterial progression and the need for invasive interventions. Conclusion: Severe mastitis is linked to primiparity and educational gaps during prenatal care. Inadequate management and late diagnosis are key factors in prolonged hospitalization and the interruption of breastfeeding, reinforcing the urgent need for healthcare team training.