Clogged ducts (blocked ducts or plugged ducts) are an all-too common frustrations for breastfeeding mothers. It occurs when a milk duct becomes blocked or obstructed, preventing breast milk from flowing to your nipple.
Your breasts contain a network of mammary glands (milk ducts), which are like tubes transporting milk from your breast tissue to your nipples. Clogged ducts occur when the back-up milk is unable to flow freely to the nipple – due to infrequent nursing or pumping.
A clogged milk duct can be uncomfortable for breastfeeding mothers. It causes a red, tender and painful lump in your breast and can lead to infection. Therefore, it is important to know the signs of a clogged duct, what causes it and how to treat it at home.
What are some signs of clogged ducts?
One of the more obvious signs of clogged duct is a hard lump on the breast, which may be painful or sore at touch. Other signs may be that your breast still feels full even after nursing your little one.
What causes clogged duct?
Clogged ducts happen when milk isn't emptied effectively from your breasts. This can occur due to:- Irregular nursing/pumping sessions: Sometimes babies sleep through feeding times, or unexpected events disrupt your normal schedule.
- Tight bras or clothing: These can restrict milk flow.
- Foods high in saturated fats and sugar
How to get rid of clogged duct?
Here are some things you can do to get your milk moving again:
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Feed baby on demand: excessive pumping and increasing milk removal can increase milk backed up, causing further inflammation.
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During a warm shower, gently massage the lump on the affected breast towards your nipple, keep massage pressure low: This helps loosen the clog, and massaging in the direction of milk flow can help clear it.
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Apply a cold compress to relieve pain or swelling/ Inflammation: Use a washcloth soaked in cold water or cold breast-ease for 10-15 minutes at a time.
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Get plenty of rest: Your body needs time to heal, and rest can help reduce inflammation.
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Take Sunflower Lecithin supplements: Sunflower Lecithin is a natural fat emulsifier that help promote smoother milk flow.
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A Breastfeeding Probiotic such as Lacta-biotic may help reduce inflammation for an active case of Mastitis.
It's important to act fast on clogged ducts to ease discomfort and prevent them from worsening. Try the tips above, and for personalized guidance, don't hesitate to chat with our Certified Lactation Consultant at +65 8786 9549.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322965#treatments-and-home-remedies