Clogged Milk Ducts: Symptoms & Treatment NYC
Clogged milk ducts, or blocked milk ducts, are a common and painful condition experienced by many mamas. However, clogged milk ducts can be effectively managed with the right knowledge and treatment approach. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for clogged milk ducts is essential for managing and not to mention preventing the condition!
What is a milk duct?
Breast milk ducts are a vital part of our breast anatomy, playing a crucial role in lactation.
Lobules and ducts compose your breast tissue. Lobules are small sacs responsible for producing milk. Whereas, ducts are the canals that carry milk from the lobules to the nipple openings during breastfeeding. New research using ultrasound imaging has identified that we have about nine milk ducts in each breast.
A blocked milk duct occurs when there’s an obstruction in your ductal system. Contrary to popular belief, these "clogs" are not due to milk becoming stuck. Rather, "clogs" are the result of inflammation, which is what restricts milk flow.
When a duct becomes blocked, inflammation and pain in the breast will occur, in addition to a buildup of milk. If you leave a clogged milk duct untreated, it can result in more severe complications such as mastitis.
What is a clogged milk duct?
Several factors can contribute to the development of clogged milk ducts. These include:
A change in your feeding schedule. You may experience a change in your schedule during the weaning period or even during the holidays when your routine changes.
Excessive pressure on your breasts. A very tight nursing bra can result in a clogged milk duct.
Skipping or prolonging feedings. Breast engorgement is common when you skip or prolong the time between feedings. Excessive breast engorgement can caused blocked milk ducts.
Less than adequate latch. If your baby is feeding incorrectly, then they won't be effectively emptying the breast and this can lead to a clogged milk duct. A tongue tie, among other reasons, may affect your baby's latch.
Other risk factors may include oversupply of milk, stress, fatigue, or a history of clogged ducts.
What causes a clogged milk duct?
The symptoms of a blocked duct will present gradually and may include:
A tender, pea-sized lump in your breast
Feeling of pressure or heaviness in your breast
Breast is slightly pink in color
A white blister on the nipple, this is known as a bleb.
Reduce milk supply from your breast
Breast is warm and tender
Engorgement of the breast
Feeling generally “off”
What does a clogged milk duct feel like?
If you leave a blocked milk duct untreated, it can progress to mastitis. A clogged milk duct is characterized by inflammation of a breast duct. Whereas, mastitis is inflammation of the breast tissue. Symptoms of mastitis develop very quickly and may include:
Flu like symptoms
Fever
Chills
Body aches
Red, swollen and painful breast
Thickening of breast tissue
Severe pain while pumping or breastfeeding
Clogged milk duct vs. Mastitis
If you believe that you have a clogged milk duct, don't wait to take action as it can progress to mastitis. Consult with a therapist specialized in breast health or a lactation consultation for guidance and treatment.
In the meantime, continue to breastfeed and/or pump at your normal feeding schedule. There may be an inclination to stop nursing from the affected breast or to breastfeed/pump more than usual. However, both of these would actually worsen the condition.
What to do if you have a clogged milk duct
When it comes to the treatment of clogged milk ducts, a breast health specialist can effectively treat the condition and help prevent it from reoccurring in the future. According to the American Academy of Breastfeeding, interventions for clogged milk ducts should include:
Targeted stretches.
Manual lymphatic drainage. This gentle, light breast massage will help you eliminate your clog and stimulate milk flow.
Therapeutic Ultrasound. Ultrasound therapy has been shown to be very beneficial in reducing pain from clogged milk ducts and the clog itself. The sound waves created from the ultrasound, will help to clear the clog, improve local blood circulation, and reduce inflammation. Ultrasound for clogged milk ducts is not at all painful.
Addressing underlying causes. To prevent recurring clogs, it's important to identify and address the main causes for your blocked milk duct. Our therapists will provide you with education and preventative strategies to reduce your likelihood of recurrent blocked milk ducts.
Clogged & blocked milk duct treatment
Book an Appointment
If your clog is persisting for longer than 48 hours despite your best efforts, or you have been experiencing reoccurring clogs, we can help! Our team have the expertise and training to help you get relief right away.
Schedule an appointment with us today by contacting us here or calling us directly at (646) 678-3034.
Interested in booking a FREE consultation call? Don’t hesitate to do so today, so that one of our therapists can answer all of your questions and concerns.
How long before a blocked milk duct turns into mastitis?
If a blocked milk duct stays blocked for more than two days there is an increased risk that it will turn into mastitis. The longer a milk duct remains blocked the higher the risk that it will turn into mastitis which is why it is important to treat the blockage as quickly as possible.
Can ultrasound break up a clogged or blocked milk duct?
Yes it can. A "mini massage" is delivered to the particular blocked location by an ultrasound machine as sound waves with light heat are sent through the breast tissue. This facilitates duct clearing and promotes milk flow via the breast.