While breastfeeding provides many substantial benefits to you and your baby, it can also come with some setbacks. One of them is clogged milk ducts. It is important to understand what causes the condition and how to treat it so you can have a better breastfeeding journey, minus the pain!
What is a clogged duct?
A clogged duct also called a blocked duct or a plugged duct, happens when the breast milk is not thoroughly drained out of the breast which then causes the milk to accumulate and block the duct.
Women with other breastfeeding challenges such as oversupply, a baby with a weak latch or pain that hinders frequent nursing, are more prone to experience clogged ducts. However, it could also happen to anyone who breastfeeds.
Risk factors include:
- a recent change in feeding pattern
- not entirely draining the breasts during each nursing session
- an irregular breastfeeding schedule
- short or missed a breastfeeding session
- pressure on the breasts as a result of uncomfortable nursing positions, tight-fitting clothes, or an underwired bra
- a poor latch by the baby
What are the symptoms of a clogged duct?
The most common symptoms of a clogged duct are:
- pain in a specific location in the breast
- a swollen, tender lump in the breast
- slower milk flow on one side
- heat and swelling in the breast
- skin that looks lumpy in one area
- a small white dot on the nipple called milk bleb
Sometimes, a clogged duct may also cause a low fever. But a low fever can also occur due to a breast infection, hence if you are feeling a bit of temperature alongside breast pain, do consult a doctor.
How to treat a clogged duct?
- before nursing or pumping, use a warm or moist compress on the clogged area for several minutes, then massage the area or try a lactation massager
- begin your nursing or pumping (if single pumping) on the affected breast until the blockage is broken up
- firmly massage the affected breast toward the nipple during nursing or pumping and alternate with compression around the edges of the clogged milk duct to break it up
- try a warm soak in the bath or shower while massaging the clogged duct while soaking
If the matter persists, do consult your doctor for more treatment options.
