Causes
Having poor drainage or blocked milk duct in your bust may cause a clogged milk duct. This can be caused by a few factors such as:
Feeding method (feeding on one bust more than the other)
Latching issues
Infrequent feedings
Wearing unsuitable bras that are too tight causing pressure
Stress & fatigue
Symptoms
You may experience the following symptoms slowly, affecting mainly one bust. The symptoms may include:
A lump in one area of your bust
Pain/swelling/engorgement surrounding/near the lump
Movement of the lump over time
Milk blister at the opening of your nipple
Subsiding discomfort after feeding or pumping
Slower milk flow
Unfortunately, clogged milk ducts will not heal by itself. If left untreated, it may become worse into an infection called Mastitis. 1 out of 10 breastfeeding women is affected by mastitis, so it is not uncommon or unheard of.
Treatments
Fortunately, there are ways to treat clogged milk duct. Useful tips include:
Massage! Massage your bust when feeding/pumping/showering. Start from the outside of your bust and apply pressure with your fingers as you move inwards. (We do bust massages during our sessions too!)
Continue breastfeeding to drain your busts regularly, starting with the affected bust
Moving around while feeding may allow your little one’s suction to reach the clog better
We do recommend seeing your doctor if you experience worse symptoms.
Dreamline Aesthetics