Blocked ducts are a common issue for breastfeeding mothers and can cause significant discomfort if not addressed promptly. A blocked duct occurs when milk flow is obstructed, leading to a build-up of milk in the breast. This can result in a hard, tender lump that can be painful and frustrating. If not managed properly, a blocked duct can escalate into mastitis, so it's crucial to address it as soon as you notice symptoms.
Recognising a Blocked Duct
The first step in managing a blocked duct is recognizing the symptoms. You may notice a small, hard lump in your breast, accompanied by localized pain or tenderness. The area around the blockage might also feel warm to the touch, and the skin could appear red or swollen. Additionally, your breast might feel full or engorged, even after feeding or pumping.
Preventing Blocked Ducts
Prevention is always better than cure, and there are several strategies you can implement to reduce the risk of blocked ducts:
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Frequent Feeding: Regularly emptying your breasts through breastfeeding or pumping is one of the best ways to prevent blockages. Try to feed your baby on demand, or if you’re pumping, stick to a consistent schedule to keep the milk flowing.
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Proper Latch: Ensure your baby has a good latch to promote effective milk transfer. A poor latch can lead to inefficient feeding, causing milk to stagnate in the ducts.
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Varied Nursing Positions: Alternate nursing positions to ensure all areas of the breast are adequately drained. For example, the “football hold” or “side-lying position” can help empty different parts of the breast.
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Avoid Tight Clothing: Tight bras or clothing can compress the milk ducts and contribute to blockages. Opt for comfortable, supportive bras that don’t constrict your breasts.
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Manage Stress: Stress can negatively impact milk supply and flow. Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to help reduce stress and support healthy breastfeeding.
Remedies for Blocked Ducts
If you find yourself dealing with a blocked duct, there are several steps you can take to relieve the blockage and get milk flowing again:
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Apply Heat Before Feeding: Warmth can help to loosen the blockage and encourage milk flow. Before nursing or pumping, apply a warm compress to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. You can use a warm washcloth, a heating pad on a low setting, or take a warm shower to achieve this.
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Massage Gently: While applying heat, gently massage the breast toward the nipple in a circular motion. Be careful not to press too hard, as rough handling can further irritate the tissue. Marnie advises treating the breast tissue gently, focusing on light, sweeping motions that guide the milk towards the nipple.
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Nurse or Pump Frequently: Continue to nurse or pump as often as possible, focusing on the breast with the blocked duct first. Position your baby’s chin or nose towards the blockage to help direct their suction towards the area that needs it most.
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Try Different Nursing Positions: Experiment with different breastfeeding positions to help drain the blocked duct. The “dangle feeding” position, where you nurse while leaning over your baby, can be particularly effective in using gravity to help clear the blockage.
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Hydrate and Rest: Keep yourself well-hydrated and rest as much as possible. Staying hydrated supports milk production, while rest gives your body the energy it needs to recover.
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Use Lecithin: Some breastfeeding mothers find that taking lecithin supplements can help reduce the stickiness of milk, making it easier for the milk to flow and preventing blockages. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
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Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing: Ensure that nothing is compressing the affected breast. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and avoid underwire bras or tight tops that could exacerbate the blockage.
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Vibration Therapy: Some women find that using a small, handheld massager or an electric toothbrush (with the brush head covered) to gently vibrate the area around the blockage can help to break up the obstruction and promote milk flow.
When to Seek Professional Help
If the blocked duct doesn’t resolve within a day or two, or if you start to develop symptoms of mastitis, such as fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms, it’s important to seek professional help. Marnie emphasises the importance of not waiting too long before consulting a women’s health physio or lactation consultant. A professional can provide more specialised treatments, such as therapeutic ultrasound, to help resolve the blockage.
Blocked ducts can be a painful and frustrating part of the breastfeeding journey, but with the right approach, they can be managed effectively. Remember to treat your body gently, maintain a consistent feeding or pumping schedule, and seek support when needed. By taking proactive steps to prevent and address blocked ducts, you can continue to breastfeed comfortably and confidently, ensuring a positive experience for both you and your baby.
Marnie Poiner is a women's health physiotherapist, sexologist, new mum, and all-around pelvic health expert. If you're based in Brisbane, you can visit Marnie at The Healthy Peach Physio at the Grange.
Read more about Marnie's experience and motherhood journey here.
