Hi Carrie Ann! -Discontinuing breastfeeding because of mastitis, plugged ducts or breast infection is the worst thing that the mother could do and can lead to breast abscess which is even more painful. Breastfeeding can usually continue after surgery for breast abscess as well depending on where the incision has been made. -Nurse frequently and use various nursing positions to gain optimal access to all milk ducts. -If the mother reports a fever, she needs to be referred to her doctor and if he determines that she requires antibiotic treatment (which is typical) - the medication needs to be compatible with breastfeeding. -Preventive measures: Avoid the following: too tight bras, restrictive clothing, pressure on the breast/s while sleeping, engorgement, switch nursing, irregular nursing, poor positioning, stress or illness such getting a cold or being exposed to other family members with colds or flu, the use of nipple shields and overdoing it or feeling run down and fatigued. -If baby refuses the affected breast or is less than eager - preferring to nurse on the 'good' side - because of flavor changes of the milk, the mother will need to pump / express to keep the affected breast as 'empty' / soft as possible and keep encouraging the baby to go back to that breast as she heals and the milk flavor returns to normal (usually within a few days to a week). -It is very important for the mother to follow her doctor's instructions about finishing her medication to avoid relapse. Hope this helps! Leona Simoes, LLLL