Having a clogged duct can be extremely painful. Worse, if the clog is not resolved it can turn into mastitis. Clogged ducts can happen for several reasons including feeding problems, ill-fitting or ineffective breast pump, baby’s sleep, and weaning. You may not know the exact reason for your clogged-duct, but relieving the pain and the clog are vital. If you are experiencing frequent clogged ducts, I would recommend seeking out a lactation consultant.
What does a clogged duct feel like?
When you have a clogged duct you will feel a hard lump on or around the breast. Mammary ducts extend all the way into the armpit. Yes, you can have a clogged duct in your armpit. However, if you have a clogged duct you can expect the area to be tender to the touch, warm, and possibly red. You may also feel pain when you experience a let down. The lump can grow or shrink in size after you pump or breastfeed.
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What causes a clogged duct?
A clogged milk duct occurs when milk is unable to get properly released from the nipple. The milk essentially becomes backed up and the tissue surrounding the duct can become inflamed. You might see a white dot on your nipple, called a milk bleb (milk blister), which is a build up of milk.
Clogged ducts can occur from a variety of reasons. An improper latch, ineffective breast pump, or an oversupply of milk. Anything that prevents the milk from being able to flow from the nipple can cause a clogged duct.
Learn more about Breastfeeding basics. Click here.
How to unclog a clogged duct:
First and foremost, do not stop pumping or breastfeeding if you have a clogged duct. It’s important to keep emptying your breasts as best you can. If you stop pumping or breastfeeding this could make the clog worse and in turn lead to mastitis.
One thing to have on hand is a lactation massager. Using a lactation massager is a great way to keep your milk flowing especially if you are clogged. This one has heat and vibrations settings.
To unclog a clogged duct you will need Epsom salt, warm water, and a Hakka.
Fill up the Hakka with warm water and add about two tablespoons of Epsom salt. Suction the Hakka to the affected breast. You want to be sure that the nipple is submerged in the warm water. Let this soak for about ten minutes. You may see trails of milk come out or even a chunk of milk (that is okay).
Repeat this method about twice a day until the clog is resolved.
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Prevent a Clogged Duct
The best way to prevent a clogged duct is to be sure you are emptying your breasts during a pumping session or a feed. After a pump or a feed your breast should feel lighter and you won’t be able to collect any more milk (if you pump). Some may be more susceptible to clogged ducts, especially if you have an oversupply or exclusively pump.
I ended up having an oversupply of milk and sought a consultation with my lactation consultant after experiencing a couple of clogged ducts. Together, we created a new feeding/pumping plan and we incorporated a Choline and Sunflower Lecithin supplement into my diet. The Choline supplement was added to help with inflammation while Sunflower Lecithin helps thin out the milk to help it flow.
Recommendations
A nurse gave me great advice for taking care of my breasts when I first started breastfeeding. She said to treat like any other injury. Ice when you rest and heat when you need to feed or pump again.
My recommendations for unclogging a clogged milk duct:
- Supplements to add to your diet
- Treatment
Remember to rest and most importantly, do not stop pumping or breastfeeding.
