Comments on: Breastfeeding Challenges: Clogged Milk Ducts

By: When Breastfeeding Isn’t Easy « buttcheeksandtoiletbowls

When Breastfeeding Isn’t Easy « buttcheeksandtoiletbowls — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 20:17:07 +0000

[...] breast infection, usually caused by engorgement, clogged ducts, underwire bras, and any abnormal pressure on the breast for an extended period of time. Mastitis is [...]

By: Lisa Mitchell

Lisa Mitchell — Tue, 10 May 2011 21:46:41 +0000

Melissa,

Based on the fact you are getting so many I would guess that there is a latch problem. I would recommend seeing a lactation consultant to discuss your issues. They can watch your baby latch and see if there may be any issues that are causing the clogs. I hope you get some relief soon, clogs are not fun especially if you are getting them over and over again.

By: Melissa

Melissa — Tue, 10 May 2011 17:31:57 +0000

My LO is 5 weeks old and I’ve had 3clogged ducts per week for the last 3 weeks (9 total). I exclusively BF. They occur on both sides and in different areas. They last typically 2-3 days each and are extremely painful. I’ve used massage, heating pads, multiple pumpings, and always start a feeding on that side. I don’t wear restrictive bras, and don’t usually sleep on my stomach. My LO appears to latch very well, and I’ve not had any cracking/drying of my nipples. I have no idea why I seem to be more prone to these than others. Do you have any ideas? I’m tired of being in so much pain all the time.

By: Lisa Mitchell

Lisa Mitchell — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 02:39:51 +0000

Nina,

Some women are more prone than others to clogged ducts. It could be they aren’t being drained all the way when nursing. If you continue to notice the clogs I would recommend going to the lactation consultant again, or your doctor to be examined.

By: Nina

Nina — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 02:31:23 +0000

I have been breastfeeding for 4 months (exactly) and about two weeks ago I experienced my first clogged duct on my left side – near the armpit. my lactation consultant talked me through the clog: I had been stressed on my left side since I’m right handed and nursing was tense on that side. I also sleep on my left side and she recommended I try to alternate sleeping positions to avoid clogs. Heating before and cooling after nursing, as well as frequent nursing/pumping, cured the clog. Now my right side – inner breast- has a clog. And, my left side continues to clog near the armpit every few days. What am I doing to cause this, and how can I avoid it?! Thank you for your advice!

By: Lisa Mitchell

Lisa Mitchell — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 19:18:45 +0000

Evelyn,

I would recommend contacting a lactation consultant. It could be a latch problem that is causing the clog. Since clogs can lead to infections it is important to get rid of them as quickly as you can. I hope the lactation consultant can help and you get some relief soon.

By: Evelyn

Evelyn — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 18:13:50 +0000

Hi, I have a newborn and have clog ducts on one side of my breast. I’ve tried the recommendations mentioned everywhere. Hot water, massage, cabbage, nurse, pumping, etc. But nothing, its been 3 days!! My mom has helped me massage the area cause my hand already hurts! What else can I do??? Help!!

By: Lisa Mitchell

Lisa Mitchell — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 13:50:44 +0000

Swaroopa,

I would recommend, since the pain has returned, to go see your doctor again. Since you have already weaned your baby you can really try any of the normal steps for relieving a clogged duct. Plus, since your child weaned so long ago I wouldn’t think it would be milk related and you should definitely get it looked at.

By: Swaroopa

Swaroopa — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 10:18:46 +0000

Hi Ruth,Mithchell

I weaned my baby in March 2010 and in August I found a lumpy breast painful.Went to doctor and had ultrasound in october.They told its a thickened milk duct and nothing to worry.It will get dilated in 2, 3 months.The pain was also gone.But the lump is still there.Suddenly a week ago its paining again.Think, My situation is similar to you both.I dont know wheteher I have to meet GP even after they have confirmed that it is nothing dangerous.Very confused.Please suggest me something..

By: Lisa Mitchell

Lisa Mitchell — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 18:57:40 +0000

Tessa,

I’m afraid I don’t have any answers for you. I would recommend seeing another lactation consultant. Are you exclusively pumping or is your baby also feeding directly from the breast?