How to Cope With a Clogged Milk Duct?
Dealing with a clogged milk duct while breastfeeding can be both painful and stressful. We turned to medical professionals and lactation experts to learn how to manage this common issue effectively.
If you’ve experienced a clogged milk duct, you know it can cause significant discomfort. Clogged milk ducts present as tender, sore spots on the breast and can lead to mastitis, a breast infection, if not resolved. This guide will cover everything you need to know about clogged milk ducts, including causes, symptoms, at-home treatments, and when to seek medical help.
What Is a Clogged Milk Duct?
Historically, sore, tender spots on the breast during breastfeeding were thought to be due to literal milk clogs. However, recent research from the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) in 2022 has updated this understanding.
“We once thought clogged milk ducts were like corks in a bottle of wine, but recent studies show they are not ‘plugs’ in a milk duct,” explains Andrea Braden, MD, IBCLC, a breastfeeding medicine specialist and CEO & co-founder of Lybbie.
Clogged ducts refer to the “swelling and narrowing of multiple milk ducts that are interconnected,” says Dr. Braden. This swelling and narrowing are typically caused by inflammation or a high bacterial load.
Clogged Milk Ducts vs. Mastitis
A more accurate term for “clogged ducts” might be “ductal narrowing,” suggests Jacque Ordner BSN, IBCLC, a curriculum coordinator at Aeroflow Breastpumps. This condition involves inflammation impacting the ducts, causing them to narrow. While clogged ducts are confined to a localized area of the breast, mastitis affects a larger area and can cause systemic symptoms like fatigue, headache, fever, nausea, and body aches.
Related: How Often Should You Pump? Breast Milk Pumping Tips
How Does a Clogged Milk Duct Happen?
Previously, clogged ducts were thought to occur when milk got “stuck” due to tight bras or pressure on the breast. However, our understanding of their causes has evolved.
According to Dr. Braden, there are two main causes of clogged ducts: mammary dysbiosis and hyperlactation.
Mammary Dysbiosis
Mammary dysbiosis is an imbalance in the breast’s microbiome. “You can have a disconnect of the types of bacteria and other microbiome organisms that are supposed to exist there and have an overgrowth of certain types compared to others,” Dr. Braden explains. This imbalance can predispose you to infections and clogged milk ducts, ultimately leading to mastitis.
Hyperlactation
Hyperlactation occurs when you produce more milk than your baby consumes. This often happens if you pump frequently, causing excess milk production. “It’s a bit of a slippery slope, because your body can’t get the milk out as quickly as it needs to, which causes it to back up,” Dr. Braden says. This backup can lead to inflammation of the ducts, causing them to narrow.
Symptoms of a Clogged Milk Duct
- Tender, sore spots on the breast
- Localized redness and warmth
- A small, hard lump in the breast
- Reduced milk supply from the affected breast
- Pain during breastfeeding or pumping
At-Home Treatments for a Clogged Milk Duct
Here are some effective at-home treatments to help relieve a clogged milk duct:
Frequent Breastfeeding or Pumping
Feed or pump frequently, especially from the affected breast, to help clear the clog.
Warm Compresses
Apply warm compresses to the affected area before breastfeeding or pumping to help open the ducts and promote milk flow.
Massage
Gently massage the affected area during feeding or pumping, starting from the outer breast toward the nipple.
Varying Nursing Positions
Try different breastfeeding positions to help drain all areas of the breast effectively.
Adequate Hydration and Rest
Stay hydrated and rest as much as possible to support your body’s healing process.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical advice. Signs that you should contact a healthcare provider include:
- Persistent pain and swelling
- Red streaks on the breast
- Fever and flu-like symptoms
- No improvement after trying home treatments
Conclusion
Clogged milk ducts can be a challenging aspect of breastfeeding, but understanding their causes and how to treat them can provide relief and prevent complications like mastitis. If at-home treatments do not resolve the issue, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider for further assistance. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure a smoother breastfeeding journey.
Read more: 12 Natural Ways To Increase Your Breast Milk Supply
