How does a plugged duct look like

It is important to note that nipple blebs are different than a blister that may occur due to friction - often because of an improper latch or using the wrong size breast shield - as these happen because of damage due to friction, rather than a blockage. If you suspect you have a nipple bleb, the best way to treat it is by removing it. The thickened milk that is the bleb will not be harmful to your baby and nursing may even help soften the bleb. You can also try applying moist heat to the affected area - such as by taking a warm bath or soaking the bleb with a warm compress to help soften it.

Hand expression using your fingers near the nipple, grasping the tip of the plug, and then gently "working" it out can also sometimes help remove the bleb. When doing this, you may see a strand of hardened milk come out of the duct. If the nipple bleb doesn't resolve within a day or two of trying to remove it yourself, speak with your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant.

Finally, remember to empty your breasts frequently by nursing, pumping, or both. Also be sure to avoid clothing, such as sports bras or bras with underwire, that may put extended pressure on your breasts!

Medela Family Products. Breastfeeding Guide. Managing Clogged Milk Ducts and Treating Mastitis Here's how to prevent and treat plugged ducts, mastitis, and nipple blebs, so you can comfortably and confidently continue your breastfeeding journey. Share this content. Tips for Unclogging a Milk Duct If you do end up with a blocked milk duct, here are some tips to relieve it: Prior to nursing or pumping, use a warm, moist compress on the plugged area for several minutes, then massage the area to break up the blockage.

Begin your nursing or pumping if single pumping on the affected side until the blockage is broken up. However, anyone who is breastfeeding can experience a clogged duct. Some risk factors include:. Occasionally, people can get a clogged milk duct that is unrelated to breastfeeding. It is usually possible to treat the symptoms of a clogged duct at home. Most clogged ducts resolve within 1—2 days , with or without treatment. Regular, consistent breastfeeding is the fastest way to resolve a clogged duct.

It is essential to empty the breast with the clogged duct completely during each breastfeeding session. A fully drained breast feels lighter and produces little or no milk on squeezing. Using a breast pump to express milk after each breastfeeding session can help if the baby has a weak latch or cannot drain the breast entirely. Sometimes a clogged duct is intensely painful or does not go away with home remedies.

A clogged duct that does not resolve can lead to mastitis, which is inflammation of the breasts due to infection. Although mastitis can be painful, a doctor can usually treat it with antibiotics.

People should not try to treat mastitis or suspected mastitis at home. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible for treatment will reduce the risk of complications. Epsom salt is available for purchase online. The most important strategy for preventing clogged ducts is allowing the baby to drain each breast completely during a breastfeeding session.

Women who have an oversupply of breast milk, which is more milk than the baby needs, have a higher risk of developing a clogged duct. A lactation consultant can offer advice on reducing this excessive supply.

A clogged duct can be painful, but it is not a medical emergency. However, it is best to see a doctor if the following symptoms occur:. Breast pumping can help in several ways, especially when it comes to preventing plugged ducts from turning into mastitis.

Talk about your symptoms with a lactation consultant. They can help figure out what may have led to this complication and how best to avoid it in the future. The Lactation Network connects moms with minute in-home or in-office visits covered by insurance. These lactation consultants will be able to provide you with a wealth of information and understanding on how to avoid mastitis as well as treat any other breastfeeding problems you may be facing. They can also assess your breast pump for potential contributing factors to plugged ducts or mastitis such as improperly-sized breast shields and also check the frequency, length and efficacy of your pumping sessions.

Moms who have experienced either plugged ducts or mastitis know just how inconvenient and alarming they can be. And if you think you may need a new pump or extra accessories to make yours work better, we can help. The top things lactation consultants wish all new moms knew about breastfeeding and working with an IBCLC. Pregnancy and birth are two of the most intense physical and emotional experiences a body can endure.

Then, once you finally welcome your baby into Welcome to TLN! Author: TLN. Lactating Parent. Share this Article.