How to Treat a Plugged or Clogged Milk Duct

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Breastfeeding mothers typically have at least one experience with plugged milk ducts. It is important to treat this problem immediately before painful mastitis begins.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Step1

Warm compresses should be used as often as possible on the area where the bump is felt as well as the nipple area.

Step2

Massage the breast from the breast towards the nipple. Try pressing the breast using your hand in the shape of a "C".

Step3

Encourage your baby to nurse frequently on the affect breast. Remember not to neglect the unaffected breast as this may lead to a plugged milk duct in the other breast.

Step4

Pump your affected breast as the different sucking motion may actually help move the milk along. Be sure that the equipment is extremely clean so that you do not cause mastitis.

Step5

Try different positions while nursing your baby. Many women find this approach helpful.

Tips & Warnings

Always remember to treat this as soon as you notice the problem. The sooner you catch it and work on it, the easier it is to resolve and the less likely you are to develop the dreaded mastitis.
If at anytime you develop a fever, see your doctor immediately for an infection. These infections are very serious and need medical treatment, sometimes even hospitalization.

Comments

GreenMomma said

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on 4/5/2008 One natural solution that should be mentioned for engorgment is fresh cabage leaves. I'm sorry this was left out of the article. Place one leaf in your loose fitting bra (never snug when engorged!) and leave it there for a couple hours and then replace. Many woman swear by this. I tried it once but it did not work for me.