A blocked duct is a condition well known to many nursing mothers, including myself. Women juggling work and breastfeeding are especially prone to experiencing regular blocked milk ducts as a result of longer intervals between feeding or pumping.
Blocked ducts should be distinguished from mastitis, an infection often accompanied by fever which requires medical attention. Both can be quite painful, though mastitis tends to be more intense. Occasionally, blocked ducts may progress to mastitis.
Typically, blocked ducts will resolve on their own within one to two days. To accelerate the process, here are a few tips:
- Always continue to breastfeed on the affected side, though it may be painful. Blocked ducts may arise due to a poor latch or from poor drainage of the breast. It may be of value to reposition the baby while feeding to better drain the blocked duct. Consider visiting a lactation specialist to rule out a poor latch.
- Gently massage the blocked duct(s). Again, this may be painful, however, by adding pressure to the area, it will help unblock the affected duct(s).
- Apply heat to the area. This can be done by placing a hot cloth directly on the affected breast. Alternatively, a hot shower can be beneficial. The temperature should not be uncomfortable. Avoid tight clothing.
- Check to see whether your bra is constrictive. If so, opt for more comfortable clothes.
- Natural remedies are ideal for breastfeeding Mom’s. For one such remedy, you need look no further than your fridge. A traditional approach to help soothe blocked ducts is the cabbage leaf. After washing well, the fresh leaf can be placed in the bra for a two hour period. This may also be effective for relieving breast engorgement.
- Last but not least, get plenty of rest. Good quality sleep is always helpful. Though it may be a challenge for nursing mothers to get adequate rest, remember: sleep when the baby sleeps. Minimizing stress is equally important as stress can contribute to the frequency of blocked ducts.
In addition to the gentle, safe and effective treatments above, other options, such as homeopathy and acupuncture could also prove beneficial.