A clogged duct, also known as a plugged duct, is a milk-carrying duct that has been blocked due to the obstructed milk flow within the breast.
Breastfeeding comes with a lot of challenges; especially, when it’s your first time. When I started breastfeeding my little one, I faced a lot of feeding-related problems. The worst was a clogged duct.
Ducts are thin tubes that carry milk from the lactating mother’s mammary gland to her nipples. When the milk flow is obstructed, these ducts become blocked. This results in the formation of a lump that causes pain and discomfort in the breast.
A clogged duct is painful and scary, but can be treated with home remedies. This article will help you find how to clear a clogged milk duct.
Causes of a Clogged Milk Duct
There could be multiple reasons that can contribute to a clogged duct. You just have to figure out what’s stopping the breast from draining out completely. A few possibilities are:
- Incorrect latch: A proper latch is important for a smooth breastfeeding experience. If the baby is not able to latch onto the breast properly, she will not be able to draw the required amount of milk. This may result in a clogged duct.
- Breast engorgement: Breast engorgement can occur when there’s an abundance of milk in the breast. This may be due to overproduction of milk (during the first few days after birth), having long gaps between feedings, feeding through a single breast, hurried feeding, etc.
- Skipped feedings: Mothers who experience nipple pain or nipple biting sometimes prefer skipping the feeds. This may cause the milk to accumulate and block the duct.
- Too much pressure on the breast: There may be some pressure from fingers, ill-fitted bras, tight clothes, straps of a baby carrier, or incorrect sleeping position that causes the milk duct to block.
- Blebs: A bleb is a visible tiny blister that forms on the nipple pore and blocks the milk from coming out.
Apart from the above, a few lifestyle factors such as inadequate diet, dehydration, vigorous exercise, and improper sleep are also associated with a clogged milk duct.
How to Clear a Clogged Milk Duct
Following measures will help you relieve a clogged milk duct at home:
- Empty the clogged breast as much and as often as possible (through feeding or pumping).
- Take hot shower and massage the affected area. Try combing the clog out using a wide-toothed comb. Nurse right after the shower.
- Apply a warm cloth or a warm heating pad to help soften the lump.
- Try dangle feeding (nurse while you lean over your baby) or any such position to allow gravity to clear the clog. You can also pump in same position if you find nursing difficult.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes. Do not wear a bra that’s too tight.
- Keep yourself hydrated.
Did You Know?
There’s a device called Lactation Massager meant specifically for clogged ducts. It helps breastfeeding mothers to massage their breasts with vibrations and compression. The massage not only helps in clearing the clogged duct, but also increases the milk flow.
Also Read: 7 Breastfeeding Myths You Shouldn’t Believe.
Final Take
If you have a clogged duct, look for a possible cause that’s preventing the breast from draining completely. Continue nursing from the affected breast to help relive the clog. The clog should go away within 1-2 days. If none of the remedies are working, seek immediate medical help as it may turn infectious and lead to mastitis.
