Analysis of risk factors leading to multiple breast abscesses during lactation

Abstract

We investigated 1805 cases of breast abscesses during lactation to estimate the risk factors for multiple breast abscesses during lactation. A total of 2000 cases of breast abscesses during lactation were investigated using an online questionnaire, and 1805 cases with complete data were analyzed. The survey response rate was 90%. According to the number of abscesses, the patients were divided into 2 groups: single breast abscess (number = 1298) and multiple breast abscess (number = 507). Pearson chi-square test was used to compare the 15 risk factors between the 2 groups. Risk factors with significant differences were substituted into a binary logistic regression model to analyze the independent risk factors associated with multiple breast abscesses during lactation. There were significant differences between the 2 groups in (1) weeks postpartum, (2) separated from the baby, (3) breastfeeding exclusivity, (4) nipple inversion, (5) fever, (6) breast redness/swelling, (7) nipple pain, (8) breast massage by nonmedical staff, with (1), (5), (6), and (8) being independent risk factors. Patients under 6 weeks postpartum, separated from the baby, not exclusively breastfeeding, having an inverted nipple on the affected side, fever, breast skin redness and swelling on the affected side, nipple pain, and having undergone a breast massage by nonmedical staff are more likely to develop multiple breast abscesses.