Table 1

The scales used for the measurements of mastitis signs and symptoms in the RCT

Erythema
Breast tension

No redness = 0
No change = 0
Slight redness in limited area = 1
Firm, no tenderness = 1
Redness in limited area = 2
Tense, not uncomfortable = 2
Bright red in limited area = 3
Tense and uncomfortable = 3
Bright red over most of the breast = 4
Tense and painful = 4

Very tense and very painful = 5

Pain was measured by Visual Analogue Scale: 0 = no pain, 10 = worst possible pain. Severity Index = Erythema + Breast tension + Pain: range 0–19

Kvist et al. International Breastfeeding Journal 2008 3:6   doi:10.1186/1746-4358-3-6