Breast-Feeding Problems: Plugged Ducts

What is a plugged duct?

A plugged duct is when one or more of the milk ducts become blocked. It will feel like a hard, tender lump in your breast. Incomplete emptying of the breast usually causes plugged ducts. Stress, fatigue, or a tight bra can also cause a plugged duct. Plugged ducts are usually caused by incomplete emptying of the breast. A plugged duct can also be caused by stress, fatigue, or a tight bra. Some women are more prone to plugged ducts than others.

Because a plugged duct can lead to a breast infection, it needs to be unplugged as soon as possible.

How can I unplug the duct?

• Nurse on the tender side first when the baby is hungriest and sucks more strongly. This will ensure complete emptying of that breast.
• Massage the breast with the lump, expressing extra milk and trying to unplug the duct.
• Between nursing sessions apply moist heat to the breast. (The best way is to soak in a hot bath while massaging your breast and expressing milk. A hot shower or a heating pad is also helpful.)
• Be persistent! With a plugged duct you have to work with massage, expression, nursing, and moist heat until it clears.
• Sleep on your side instead of your back to assist the flow of milk down the ducts in your breasts.
• Since stress can be an important factor in plugged ducts, make sure you get plenty of rest and relaxation.
• When the plugged duct unclogs, you may feel a burning or pinching.

WARNING: If you have redness, a painful lump, or a fever and flu-like feeling along with your plugged duct, you could have a breast infection. Call your health care provider immediately.

How can I prevent plugged ducts?

• Nurse frequently.
• Empty each breast at each nursing.
• Avoid tight or poorly fitting bras.
• Sleep on your side instead of back.
• Get plenty of rest.