[A new approach to the prophylaxis and therapy of puerperal mastitis (author's transl)].

The prolactin-inhibitor Bromocriptin was examined in an open study in comparison with Hexoestrol, a synthetic estrogen compound, in 31 patients with severe postpartal breast engorgement and in 38 patients with acute puerperal mastitis. In both indications a significantly faster clinical improvement was achieved with Bromocriptin. Also the incision-rate in cases of breast abscess was significantly lower in the Bromocriptin group. The inhibition of prolactin is considered the method of choice, as well in the prophylaxis as in the treatment of puerperal mastitis.