Hi Joy First I am sorry if two post are sent, I accidently pushed the wrong key. Bacteria enters the body from a damaged nipple through the blood supply not the milk supply. I agree there are moms who have an inflamation and if agressively treated with rest, frequent empting, reducing plugged ducts,ect., she may get by without antibotics. But ... if she developes a fever and flu symptoms, she needs antibotics added to the treatment. If a mom has damaged nipples I like to use Bactroban on them to help with the healing and hopefully prevent a mastitis. Ann Perry RN IBCLC