Is there a faster, safer way to treat mastitis without jumping straight to antibiotics?

In this episode of The Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, I’m joined by Catherine, a women's health physiotherapist, to explore a powerful but often underutilized tool in mastitis recovery: therapeutic ultrasound.

We break down how this therapy can help resolve blocked ducts, breast inflammation, and early mastitis before it spirals into something more serious—and how to know if it’s the right fit for you. We also cover the critical differences between diagnostic ultrasound (what your OB uses) and therapeutic ultrasound designed specifically for tissue healing.

Whether you’re in the thick of a painful breast infection or just want to be prepared, this episode is packed with evidence-based strategies, early symptom red flags, and practical support to help you feel confident navigating inflammatory breast conditions.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What is therapeutic ultrasound and how it helps in mastitis treatment

• How it works differently than the ultrasound you're used to at OB appointments

• Signs that inflammation is setting in—and how to act before it turns into infection

• The right way to use heat and cold therapy for mastitis

• How to find a qualified provider for therapeutic ultrasound

• Why early intervention is key to avoiding complications

• Challenges in accessing this treatment (and how to advocate for it)

• Tips to support breast healing naturally and effectively

• Why this option deserves more attention in standard care

RESOURCES:

👉 Want to go deeper? Save $100 on the Breastfeeding Resource Library Breastfeeding Prep & Thrive Prenatal & Postpartum Support

Connect with Kath

00:00 | Intro to the Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast 01:05 | Meet Catherine: How she found her calling in women’s health 04:46 | What is mastitis? What is therapeutic ultrasound? 09:12 | Heat or ice? How to manage inflammation properly 15:43 | Catherine’s practical advice for mastitis relief and recovery 27:35 | Final thoughts + how to learn more about therapeutic ultrasound