Got plugged milk duct? Are your milk ducts blocked, inflamed and/or sore. The first general symptom is the presence of a small hard lump. This may be sore when touched, or might be a very tender spot in the breast.
Clogged ducts may be as a result of failure to drain milk completely. Tight nursing bras, incomplete or skipped feedings, insufficient expressing of the milk, an illness or stress are all factors that contribute to the development of a clogged milk duct. Here are four important tips in preventing clogged milk ducts.
Tip 1
You should nurse your baby, pump your breast with the use of your hand or breast pump more frequently. Removing the milk prevents engorgement and infection. Nursing should be conducted frequently and for long periods to ensure the baby removes enough milk from the breast. Latching the baby well drains the breast more adequately and you should place the baby’s chin towards the affected area.
Tip 2
Clogged ducts feel like a small lump and should be massaged with a pushing motion toward the nipple while nursing your baby or pumping. A heating pad or a warm moist towel can also be placed on the area that seems to be clogged and repeated as often as needed. The heat opens the milk ducts better and allows for more milk drainage. A hot shower or bath can also promote relaxation and unclog the milk duct. Cabbage leaf warmed in the microwave can also be used as a home remedy and put on the affected area. Hand held massagers and reusable heat packs can also be used until the duct becomes loose.
Tip 3
Milk clogs can be squeezed out of this breast. This however should be conducted under sterile and hygienic conditions to prevent infections. The breast is massaged until a white clot appears on your nipple. Moist heat should then be applied and a sterile needle is then used to pop the blister. An antiobiotic ointment should then be administered for a couple of days to prevent infections from occurring. Avoid excessive arm exercises at the gym if you are likely to get clogged milk ducts. Persistent clots with other symptoms such as feeling aches, fatigued or feverish may be a sign an infected duct. A doctor should be consulted when this occurs.
Tip 4
To relive a clogged milk duct, mothers should nurse with the breast hanging straight down. Place the baby on a bed and kneel over him to nurse. Leaning as far over as you can while pumping, can also aid in the removal of the clog. You should not wear tight fitting clothing or bras. This pressure can cause a milk duct to clog. Bras that contain underwire should also be avoided as the wire can cut into the breast and cause an infection. Supportive, not tight bras can ease some problems associated with clogged ducts and reduce the amount of clogs present.