An estimated two-thirds of mamas experience plugged milk ducts at some point during their breastfeeding journey. For some, like myself, clogged ducts can be recurrent. If a plugged duct goes untreated, it can lead to more serious infections like mastitis (where mama gets a fever). So it’s important to treat blocked ducts early.
At this point, I can say I’ve tried nearly every combination of techniques to unplug clogged ducts. I’ve been getting clogged every 4-5 days for the past month and a half. It’s been physically and mentally exhausting. Not to mention painful. So I’d like to share all of the tools in my arsenal to unclog blocked milk ducts. I hope my experience can help the other mamas out there!
1. Nursing often is crucial to removing a plugged duct
Don’t underestimate how strong baby’s suction is! Every time I’ve gotten a clog out, it’s been during a nursing session. Always start nursing on the clogged breast. As baby is sucking, massage the clogged area. Cup your breast with your hand and place your thumb on the lump. Apply pressure, starting at the clogged area and bringing your thumb toward your nipple. Repeat as much as needed to decrease the size of the clog or get it out altogether. I also encourage you to mix up your breastfeeding positions to try to loosen the plugged duct. I often alternate between cradle hold, football hold, and dangle feeding.
When baby empties your breast, the clog may or may not still be there. If you’re still plugged, continue your nursing routine, switching to the other breast. If you’re confident baby has emptied the other breast and is still sucking, switch baby back to the clogged breast and let your baby continue sucking until satisfied. When baby is done, the clog might be gone or you could still be plugged. If you’re still plugged, try out the other techniques I’ve detailed below.
2. Heat helps open up your milk ducts
You can apply heat using three techniques: a) in the shower; b) using a warm compress; or c) soak your breast in warm water. After nursing, I’m convinced that the heat from a warm shower is the next best way to help dislodge a plugged duct. Hold the shower head close to your breast, letting the stream of water massage your breast. Let the water hit each part of your breast, including the bottom, lifting your breast to make sure the water hits it. Next, point the water directly at the clogged duct and massage the area. You can also hand express in the shower.
My favorite new trick is using a suction pump (Haakaa hand pump) in the shower. Let the water massage your breast as the pump is suctioned on. This helps remove excess milk and loosen the clog. You can remove the pump every few minutes to empty the pump and reattach until little milk is collecting in the pump. I’ve also simultaneously massaged the lump with an electric toothbrush. The vibration is supposed to help break up the plugged area. It’s best if you can breastfeed after you get out of the shower to increase the chances of baby getting out the plugged duct.
If you’re not able to take a shower, you can use a warm compress for about 10-20 minutes. If you have a plugged duct, you can use a warm compress before your nurse in hope of loosening it. Even when I’m not clogged, I like to use a warm compress before I go to bed and after nursing sessions. I like to think this is a preventative measure but not sure how effective it is.
Friends of mine have also recommended soaking your breast in a basin of warm water with Epsom salts before nursing. I’ve also heard that you can fill your Haakaa pump with warm water and Epsom salt. See this quick instructional video by @milksprouts. Some mamas seem to swear by this trick! I haven’t tried it yet myself but will give it a try in the future, if needed, and report back!
3. Pump and/or hand express between nursing sessions to loosen the clog
You can also use an electric pump to help get the clog out. I use a Madela hospital grade pump (Lactina Select). Most types of insurance will cover a hospital grade pump so you should be able to get one for little to no cost. I also have a Lansinoh electric pump (Signature Pro Double Electric Pump). I’m convinced it’s not as powerful as the hospital grade pump but it is portable if you need to pump on the go! While you’re pumping, you can apply some lotion to your breast to massage the clogged area.
It’s taken me anywhere from 2 hours to 2 days to get out a plugged duct. So patience is key! That said, I know how frustrating it is waiting for a clogged duct to come out. Sometimes it’s incredibly painful and other times it’s more bearable. A few hours can feel like an eternity when you’re in severe pain. Some days, I’ve felt completely helpless and shed countless tears. But know that a plugged duct always comes out in time.
Please don’t hesitate to contact a lactation consultant or doctor for a consultation if your plugged duct doesn’t go away in a day or two and if you have a fever. I’ve seen both and have been prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. The medicine made a difference so I’m glad I asked for help. Another idea is to reach out to your local La Leche League leader to ask for advice. They have lots of knowledge and first-hand experience with breastfeeding problems. They’re a great resource to have at your disposal.
Mamas, what’s worked well for you?
The Plugged Duct Diaries 