Breast-Feeding Problems: Plugged Ducts
What is a plugged duct?
A plugged duct is when one or more of the milk ducts become blocked. It will feel like a hard, tender lump in your breast. Plugged ducts are usually caused by incomplete emptying of the breast. A plugged duct can also be caused by stress, fatigue, or a tight bra. Some women are more prone to plugged ducts than others.
Because a plugged duct can lead to a breast infection, it needs to be unplugged as soon as possible.
How can I unplug the duct?
- Nurse on the tender side first when the baby is hungriest and sucks more strongly. This will ensure complete emptying of that breast.
- Massage the breast with the lump, expressing extra milk and trying to unplug the duct.
- Between nursing sessions apply moist heat to the breast. (The best way is to soak in a hot bath while massaging your breast and expressing milk. A hot shower or a heating pad is also helpful.)
- Be persistent! With a plugged duct you have to work with massage, expression, nursing, and moist heat until it clears.
- Sleep on your side instead of your back to assist the flow of milk down the ducts in your breasts.
- Since stress can be an important factor in plugged ducts, make sure you get plenty of rest and relaxation.
- When the plugged duct unclogs, you may feel a burning or pinching.
WARNING: If a plugged duct is accompanied by redness, a painful lump, and/or a fever and flu-like feeling, you could have a breast infection. Call your physician immediately!
How can I prevent plugged ducts?
- Nurse frequently.
- Empty each breast at each nursing.
- Avoid tight or poorly fitting bras.
- Sleep on your side instead of back.
- Get plenty of rest.