2nd May 2024

A 32-year-old woman, 6 weeks postpartum and breastfeeding, presents with a painful, swollen, red area on her right breast for the past 2 days.

A 32-year-old woman, 6 weeks postpartum and breastfeeding, presents with a painful, swollen, red area on her right breast for the past 2 days. She has a fever of 38.5°C and feels generally unwell. On examination, there is a 3 cm tender, indurated area on the upper outer quadrant of her right breast without fluctuance. She has no known drug allergies. What is the most appropriate initial management?