When it comes to breastfeeding (and YES, pumping is breastfeeding!), one of the more frustrating and painful challenges that many moms might face is clogged milk ducts. These blockages can cause mild to severe discomfort and lead to more serious complications if not addressed promptly and properly. Let's chat about what clogged milk ducts are, how to treat them effectively, and how to prevent them.
What is a Clogged Milk Duct and What Causes It?
A clogged milk duct occurs when ductal narrowing within the breast tissue restrict milk flow. It's like a little traffic jam in the breast's milk flow system as a result of inflammation and/or mammary dysbiosis.
You may notice breast pain and even a tender lump that doesn't seem to go away after pumping. Other common symptoms include redness and/or a burning sensation.
While some moms are simply more prone to clogged ducts, some common causes include ineffective or infrequent milk removal and tight-fitting clothing. When left untreated, a clogged duct can result in mastitis: inflammation of the breast tissue that often involves an infection accompanied by fever, body aches, and other flu-like symptoms.
When Can a Clogged Milk Duct Happen?
Clogged ducts are most common during the early postpartum weeks when milk supply is being established. However, they can occur later on, especially if there are significant changes in your milk removal patterns.
Pumping moms may notice clogged ducts when they decide to adjust their pump schedules, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Pumping moms may also be at a higher risk for clogged ducts if pump settings are not optimized, your pump is malfunctioning, or your pump parts are not properly fitted. All of these issues result in inadequate performance that cannot fully drain the milk from your breasts.
Want to drop pump sessions without increasing your risk for clogged ducts?
See this blog post about 4 Ways to Wean From the Pump.
Treating a Clogged Duct
Outdated Methods:
Before we chat about properly dealing with clogged ducts, let's discuss what NOT to do. Maybe you've heard from an older friend that the more aggressive you are in treating a clogged duct, the better. In the past, women were advised to vigorously knead their breasts to "work out clogs" or use intense vibration (think electric toothbrush) and heat until the clog was "cleared." Such methods would leave any mama feeling exhausted, discouraged, and most likely in a significant amount of pain! Plus, deep massage has been shown to increase inflammation, cause tissue swelling, and sometimes result in microvascular injury.
Modern Tools and Proper Usage:
According to updated guidelines from the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) Protocol #36, manual lymphatic drainage involving light sweeping motions on the skin is a much more effective approach to dealing with clogged ducts.
Need a demonstration?
Watch this video to see my gentle lymphatic massage technique. These gentle motions can reduce inflammation and ductal narrowing.
Hands-On Lymphatic Massage
Reducing inflammation to help milk flow more freely takes time, so be patient with yourself instead of resorting to aggressive methods. I always try to practice hands-on massage when I notice an unusual and enlarged mass in my breast. Immediate attention can be beneficial while working on moving away adema which may be causing ductal narrowing. Waiting too long to address the issue can increase the risk of progressing symptoms.
Continue Pumping
Though it can be slightly uncomfortable when you have a clogged duct, continue pumping with your usual schedule to ensure your affected breast is being fully emptied and milk is moving frequently. Over pumping or adding extra session into your pumping schedule can exacerbate the issue by demanding more milk production, in turn increasing discomfort. If you are new to developing a pumping schedule, attempt to space out your sessions in a way that mimics your baby's feeding schedule.
Medication
For pain relief, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can be effective in reducing breast discomfort and inflammation.
Treating and Maintenance from Within
Incorporating a probiotic with the strain L. fermentum can be an effective tool for those who may be prone to clogs and mastitis. Reaching the source of the issue will be the ultimate fix. In the recent past a study was shown that Sunflower Lecithin can disrupt mom's gut flora and in turn present in baby's gut as problematic symtoms too. Sunflower lecithin applied to be used as an emulsifier for breast milk, allowing it to flow more freely but if you are using this supplement and are noticing gastro issues with you or baby consider switching to Choline. In 2021 a study was released which found that lecithin can have a negatic impact on the gut flora, resulting in intestinal inflammation. If you are reading this and don't want to chance it with sunflower lecithin, consider workin a choline supplement into your diet, adding 550mg is satisfactory. Choline is naturally occurring in eggs, fish,nuts and other common foods. This supplement also has health benefits for both mom and baby, this is why you may also find this nutrient included within your probiotic and prenatal vitamins.
Cool Compresses
Instead of using a heating pad in between or during your pumping or feeding sessions, try cold compresses to reduce inflammation. These gel cold packs are very soothing and can be found in my Amazon Storefront.
If Symptoms Don't Improve
If the affected area doesn't clear after a day or two, or if you develop symptoms like fever, chills, or increasing pain, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. These could be signs of an infection, like mastitis, which may require medical treatment.
Avoiding/Preventing Clogged Ducts
Avoid Tight Fitting Clothes
Breastfeeding mamas should make sure that they avoid tight bras and and other tight clothing that compress breast tissue. Wearing bras that are supportive, but have some stretch, like those from Davin and Adley, can make a big difference! They offer modern bralettes and camis that are perfect for maternity, nursing, and pumping. The Amelia Crop Cami and the Ella Bralette are some of my favorites, and neither are underwire bras! Use affiliate code BREASTFRIENDS10 for 10% off!
Proper Pumping Habits
Other ways to avoid clogged ducts throughout your breastfeeding journey include ensuring that your pumping routine and pumping supplies are effective.
- Consistent Schedule: Establishing and maintaining a consistent pumping schedule ensures effective milk removal. Of course, there will be times when you need to push back a pumping session or pump earlier than usual because, well, life happens. Just try your best to get back on schedule as soon as possible!
- Quality Pumps: Not all breast pumps are created equal. Finding the perfect device for your pumping situation is a common concern for many women. A good breast pump has strong, adjustable suction strength and a great motor. Begin by reading this blog all about narrowing down your ideal breast pump, then follow us on Instagram @bemybreastfriend to hear my honest opinions on various popular pumps out there!
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Properly Fitting Pump Parts: The fit of your pump parts, especially your flanges, plays a significant role in how efficiently your pump can remove milk. If your flange is too large or too small, it can lead to inefficient milk removal (similar to poor latch if nursing), which increases the risk of clogged ducts.
- Good news if you're not sure which size flange you are: Use my nipple ruler to find the best fit! Not only will it help prevent clogged ducts, but also avoid sore nipples and generally make your pumping experience more comfortable.
Say Goodbye to Clogged Ducts
Dealing with clogged ducts is never fun for a breastfeeding woman, but by understanding what causes them, using appropriate treatment methods, and taking steps to prevent them, you can keep your breastfeeding journey on track. Be patient with yourself, and don't hesitate to seek professional medical advice if you are having trouble managing your discomfort from home or think you may be noticing symptoms of mastitis.
