Clogged Ducts, Mastitis, & More

Experiencing pain in your breasts? Hard lumps, sore to the touch? Maybe even warm or red? You might be dealing with plugged (or “blocked”) milk ducts.

A few things can contribute to this painful and frustrating experience. An improper latch, oversupply, skipped feedings, or abrupt weaning can all lead to inadequate milk drainage, which can create plugged milk ducts. If you’re using an electric breast pump, the flange might not be the right fit, or the pump settings may not be appropriate for effective milk drainage. Electric breast pumps aren’t “one size fits all,” so connect with a lactation professional to ensure your pump is set up just right for you. Bras that are too tight or certain positions (from sleeping to how you carry diaper bags) can create constant pressure on the breasts, putting stress on the milk ducts and blocking milk flow, leading to clogged ducts. Previous breast surgeries or scar tissue can also block milk ducts. It’s important to act promptly when you notice signs of discomfort to prevent further inflammation or infection.

How to Relieve Clogged Ducts

• Apply ice/cool compresses while supine to reduce inflammation.

• Rest as much as you can.

• Keep breastfeeding or pumping as usual. Over pumping may signal your body to make more milk.

• Stay hydrated and eat a well-balanced diet.

• Vitamin C can support your immune system.

• Lecithin supplements may help prevent and reduce clogged ducts by decreasing ductal inflammation and emulsifying milk. Specifically sunflower lecithin can be a good soy-free, cold-pressed option.

• Certain probiotic strains may be helpful: Lactobacillus Fermentum CECT5716 and Lactobacillus Salivarius CECT5713

• Avoid hard/deep massage on the breast which can make the inflammation worse and instead, consider gentle lymphatic breast massage specifically for breast inflammation.

Oh, Mastitis

Mastitis. It’s something most moms have heard about and might fear when they start their breastfeeding or pumping journey. It’s the inflammation and infection that can develop in the breasts, and it can happen quickly. Mastitis is also a common reason for early cessation of breastfeeding, so let’s learn how to identify it now before it interferes with your breastfeeding journey.

What was once simply called mastitis is now referred to as the mastitis spectrum, which includes varying degrees of breast inflammation, starting with ductal narrowing (plugged ducts), inflammatory mastitis, bacterial mastitis, phlegmon, abscesses, galactocele, and subacute mastitis. As inflammation worsens, so does the condition—and the risk of infection.

Causes of mastitis include:

• Damaged nipples: an entry point for bacteria

• Infrequent feedings, missed feedings, or abrupt weaning

• Oversupply and over pumping

• Poor latch and inadequate milk removal

• Pressure on milk ducts (from bras, bags, or seat belts)

• Maternal stress and fatigue

• Women who’ve had mastitis before are more likely to experience it again

Symptoms of mastitis:

• Hard, painful lumps

• Red streaks

• Hot, inflamed areas

• Flu-like symptoms: fever, chills, and body aches

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your medical professional immediately to determine what the next steps of work-up and treatment would be for you.

It is completely safe for the baby to continue breastfeed directly from the breast with mastitis.

Here are some remedies to help ease discomfort (B.A.I.T.):

• Breast rest: Continue to breastfeed by your baby’s feeding cues, starting on the healthy breast. Directly breastfeeding is preferred over pumping. Avoid a nipple shield if possible. If pumping exclusively, do not try to "empty" the breasts and just pump enough for baby.

• Anti-inflammatory medication: As recommended by your doctor.

• Ice: Apply ice/cold packs for 10-20 minutes every 1-2 hours while awake. Avoid too much heat. However, if a warm compress prior to breastfeeding or pumping is soothing, you can use it sparingly.

• Tylenol and/or NSAID's: For pain relief, as advised by your medical professional.

What More?

Nipple Bleb or Milk Blister

Ever noticed those little white spots on your nipple or areola and wondered what they are? Those are nipple blebs or milk blisters, which form in response to inflammation from nipple damage. They may or may not be painful. Don’t pick or pop the bleb, as this can cause further nipple damage. Keep the nipple moist, apply ice, and allow your baby to continue nursing. If it doesn’t resolve within a few days or worsens, contact a medical professional for treatment.

Fungal Infection - Thrush (Candida Albicans)

Common symptoms include:

• Pink, flaky, or shiny skin at the nipple and/or areola.

• Sharp pain or a burning sensation at the nipple and/or breast.

• White spots or patches in your baby’s mouth that look like milk residue but can’t be easily wiped away.

If thrush is present, sterilize pump parts, bottles, pacifiers, and nipple shields after each use. Change breast pads often and launder bras daily. Pharmacological treatment from a medical professional may be necessary for both you and your baby. Keep in mind if you place topicals on your nipples, it may look like a fungal infection, but it might actually be an allergic reaction.

Disclaimer: The information on Mone does not replace professional medical assessment, diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Please seek medical advice from your physician or other qualified health care providers.