Breastfeeding Issues: Dealing With Plugged Breast Ducts
Follow these steps to treat a blocked breast duct during breastfeeding.
A tender lump on your breast during breastfeeding is most likely a plugged breast duct. This breastfeeding issue can happen when the milk in your breasts isn't fully drained during feeding, causing the duct to become swollen and sore.
Treat blocked ducts as soon as you notice them to prevent the development of a bigger breastfeeding issue ... mastitis—a breast infection that can occur during breastfeeding.
To treat a blocked duct, try these steps:
report abuseTreat blocked ducts as soon as you notice them to prevent the development of a bigger breastfeeding issue ... mastitis—a breast infection that can occur during breastfeeding.
To treat a blocked duct, try these steps:
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Apply warm washcloths to the breast or let warm water run over it in the shower to help the breast drain.
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Use your fingertips to massage the breast to help the milk circulate. Pay particular attention to the area behind the breast.
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When feeding your baby, be sure to position properly to promote milk flow. Your baby's chin should be pointed toward the plugged area to help encourage breast draining. You can also massage the breast during feeding to help milk flow.
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Wear loose-fitting tops while your breast is swollen and tender. (I.e. Save your cutest clubbing gear for after the blockage has cleared!)
- If the lump doesn't respond to your home treatment in 24-48 hours, contact your doctor for help with this breastfeeding issue.
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