Clogged ducts and mastitis: A guide for mums

Clogged ducts and mastitis: A guide for mums

Mastitis and clogged ducts. Words that strike fear into the heart of every breastfeeding mother. In this blog, I'm going to take a look at a topic that can be a real pain—quite literally—for breastfeeding mums: clogged ducts and mastitis. These common issues can disrupt your breastfeeding journey, but with the right knowledge and steps, you can manage them effectively. Let’s look at how to recognise the symptoms, what to do if you suspect you have a clogged duct or mastitis, and when to seek help from a lactation consultant or primary care professional.

Understanding clogged ducts and mastitis

Clogged ducts:A clogged (or blocked) milk duct happens when milk flow is obstructed, causing milk to build up in the breast. This can lead to a tender, swollen area that may feel like a small lump or a hardened spot in your breast.

Mastitis:Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue, often caused by an infection. It can develop from a clogged duct or on its own. Symptoms include breast pain, redness, and flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills.

Recognising the symptoms

Signs of a clogged duct:

• A small, hard lump in your breast.
• Swelling or redness in a specific area of the breast.
• Discomfort or pain, especially during breastfeeding.
• A slower flow of milk from the affected breast.

Signs of mastitis:

• Intense breast pain and swelling.
• Red, hot patches on the breast.
• Fever (usually above 38°C) and chills.
• Fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell.

Immediate steps to take

If you suspect a clogged duct or mastitis, acting quickly can help resolve the issue and prevent further complications. Here’s what you can do:

For clogged ducts:

1. Continue breastfeeding or pumping:

• Frequent feeding: Feed your baby more often from the affected breast to help clear the blockage. Aim for every 2-3 hours.
• Positioning: Try different breastfeeding positions to help drain the milk from all parts of the breast. The "dangle feed," where you lean over your baby while they nurse, can be particularly effective. Positioning the baby's nose or chin into the affected part of the breast can help to 'massage' it out, as can hand massage, or using a specific vibrating massager.

2. Apply warmth and massage:

• Warm compress: Use a warm, damp cloth or a warm shower to apply heat to the affected area. This can help loosen the clog.
• Gentle massage: Gently massage the area towards the nipple before and during feeds to help release the blockage.

3. Ensure good latch:

• Make sure your baby is latching correctly to facilitate efficient milk removal. If you’re unsure, consult a lactation consultant for guidance.

4. Rest and stay hydrated:

• Adequate rest and fluids are essential. Drink plenty of water and try to rest as much as possible.

For mastitis:

1. Seek medical advice immediately:

• If you have a fever or severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. Antibiotics may be necessary to treat the infection, and someone who is licensed to prescribe is needed for this.

2. Continue breastfeeding:

• Despite the pain, it’s best to keep breastfeeding or pumping to maintain milk flow and prevent further complications.

3. Use warm and cold therapy:

• Warm compresses: Apply warmth before feeding to ease milk flow.
• Cold packs: After feeding, use cold packs to reduce swelling and pain.

4. Take pain relief if needed:

• Over-the-counter pain relief, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. There's no prizes for struggling through pain. A reminder not to take aspirin when breastfeeding.

Preventing clogged ducts and mastitis

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to help reduce the risk of clogged ducts and mastitis:

1. Ensure baby has a good latch and positioning:

• A good latch and varying feeding positions can help ensure your breasts are fully drained during feeds, which is key if you suffer from frequent blocked ducts or mastitis.

2. Avoid restrictive clothing:

• Tight bras or clothing can compress your breasts and restrict milk flow. Opt for comfortable, well-fitting bras, wire free, or if you feel like you need a bit of lift, flexi-wires after 6-8 weeks once your milk supply has established.

3. Don’t skip feeds:

• Regular breastfeeding or pumping is vital. Try to maintain a consistent feeding schedule to avoid milk buildup.

4. Gradually wean:

• If you’re weaning, do it gradually to allow your milk supply to decrease naturally, reducing the risk of blockages.

5. Stay hydrated and eat well:

• Keeping hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet supports overall health and milk production.

‍6. Think about sunflower lecithin:

• Anecdotal evidence has shown that sunflower lecithin can be effective in reducing bouts of mastitis for nursing mothers prone to this.

When to get help

If you suspect mastitis or if a clogged duct doesn’t resolve within 24-48 hours despite home treatments, it’s important to seek professional advice. Delaying treatment can lead to more severe infections or abscesses. Contact your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant for guidance on what to do.

Conclusion

Clogged ducts and mastitis are common hurdles in the breastfeeding journey, but they don’t have to derail your progress. By recognising the symptoms early and taking proactive steps, you can manage and overcome these challenges. Remember, you’re not alone—support is available to help you and your baby thrive.

‍

For more tips and insights on breastfeeding and baby care, subscribe to Lullabies Blog, 'Beyond Bedtime' and follow us on social media.

‍