Clogged Milk Ducts & Treatment
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and World Health Organization (WHO) currently recommends that infants be fed breast milk exclusively for the first 6 months after birth, with continued breastfeeding along with introducing appropriate complementary foods for up to 2 years of age or longer. That recommendation is ideal but much easier said than done. There are many challenges along the way for breastfeeding moms and breast pain with feeding is the most common reason for earlier than desired weaning.
Some of the most common reasons for breast pain while breastfeeding are clogged ducts and mastitis which are now considered a spectrum of conditions caused by inflammation in the breasts.
20% of lactating women will be affected by these pain conditions.
Prevention and treatment is essential to preserving the breastfeeding relationship.
What is a clogged duct?
A clogged milk duct occurs when a milk duct becomes blocked or obstructed, preventing breast milk from flowing to your nipple. The pressure from the clog causes the tissue behind it to inflame leading to localized pain.
Why do clogged ducts happen?
Clogged ducts can occur for many reasons, most resulting from inadequate or infrequent emptying of breast milk
Baby has a difficult latch
Baby is a “distracted” feeder
Going too long between feedings
Abrupt changes in feeding/pumping schedule
Baby is sleeping longer stretches
Mom goes back to work and misses pumping breaks
Oversupply
Tight fitting bras or clothing
Underwire bras often can lead to clogged ducts
Pump parts need to be changed
Symptoms of a clogged duct
A warm and painful localized, hard lump in the breast
Normally unilateral
No fever
Generally feel well
How do you get rid of a clogged duct?
As a physical therapist, if someone came into the clinic with a painful, inflamed ankle our goal would be to help reduce the inflammation to help alleviate symptoms…breasts are the same way!
Our rehab team can provide therapeutic ultrasound treatment combined with lymphatic massage and general lactation support and care to treat your clogged milk duct!
DO:
Use ice or cold packs in between feedings
This causes vasoconstriction and decreases blood flow to the area which decreases inflammation.
Nurse or pump on demand
Follow your regular routine!
If you’re weaning or your baby’s schedule changes, hand express or pump just enough milk to relieve pressure. Your body will soon get the message to make less milk and will adjust.
Take an NSAID such as ibuprofen
This medication is an anti-inflammatory which will help relieve symptoms
Therapeutic Ultrasound
This treatment, which is performed by a medical professional, helps dilate the ducts and break up the clog into smaller pieces that can more easily be removed with breastfeeding or pumping. We are proud to offer same day appointments at Women in Motion!
Rest & Hydrate
DON’T:
Use warm compresses
Heat causes vasodilation which actually worsens the inflammation
Add in extra nursing or pumping sessions.
Overdoing it tells your body to make MORE milk and since milk is made from blood, this would cause an increase in inflammation.
Perform Epsom salt soaks
Vigorously massage the breasts
This can lead to tissue trauma which would cause an increase in inflammation as well.
It is SO important to address clogged ducts immediately because they can lead to more severe conditions such as mastitis or breast abscess.
NEW TO WOMEN IN MOTION, STARTING MARCH 2024
We will be offering DAILY THERAPEUTIC ULTRASOUND APPOINTMENTS to serve our community. According to the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM), therapeutic ultrasound is an effective treatment for conditions within the mastitis spectrum.
We are excited to offer this service at our clinic and we look forward to helping you from your first latch to your last!