You've woken up feeling a deep ache within one of your breasts. As you shift in bed, you become more aware of how tender and swollen the spot is. It's warm to touch, slightly red and the panic begins to set in. What have I done wrong? Is this mastitis? Have I ruined my milk supply?
You've heard about blocked ducts before but never thought it would happen to you. With your newborn still asleep, you feel overwhelmed, unsure of what to do next.
If this is you, you are not alone.
A blocked duct occurs when one of the milk ducts within the breast becomes obstructed, leading to a build-up of milk and forming a lump in the breast. This can be painful and uncomfortable, often accompanied by swelling, redness, and tenderness. Blocked ducts can happen at any time but are especially common in the first few weeks of breastfeeding while your supply is still regulating.
Common Causes of Blocked Ducts
Blocked ducts can develop for several reasons, and you're not at fault here. Remember breastfeeding is a learned skill that you and your baby are learning. Even with all the things in place to avoid a blocked duct, they can still pop up (believe me, I've been there a few times!). Blocked ducts can be caused by:
Baby sleeping longer stretches
Rushed feeds
Inadequate milk removal (poor latch, sleepy baby)
Oversupply
Tight clothing or pressure on the breast
Signs & Symptoms of a Blocked Duct
If you have a blocked duct, you may notice some distinctive signs that point to this. The common signs include:
A swollen or hard lump in the affected area.
Tenderness and redness.
Pain, especially when feeding.
A decrease in milk flow from the affected breast.
Okay, now you know what you're dealing with, it's time to take action. With the correct measures in place, a blocked duct will typically resolve with 24-48 hours, and you can avoid further complications. It will be an uncomfortable period but there are some things to help you.
Feed on demand - There is no need to increase feeds as you want to avoid overstimulating your breasts, creating more milk production. Simply let you baby feed when they need. If your baby is sleepy and needs encouragement to feed, stick to a 2-4 hourly feeding regime.
Start feeds on the affected side – It's important to remove milk from your breast to avoid further build up and inflammation. Allow your baby to feed on the affected side first before offering the other side.
Check your baby’s latch – A deep, effective latch ensures proper milk removal is happening. Blocked ducts can be the result of a shallow latch and poor milk removal.
Change feeding positions – Different angles can help drain the breast more effectively, along with providing you comfort.
Gentle massage – Use soft strokes towards the nipple while your baby feeds, avoiding any aggressive pressure. Your strokes should be like a light touch massage. DO NOT do any deep tissue massage to the breast, this will cause more inflammation.
Apply warmth before feeding – A warm compress can help encourage milk flow and provide you some comfort before a feed.
Relax and breathe deeply – Stress can impact milk letdown, so make sure to breathe before feeding and during, particularly if you are experiencing pain.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing – Take off restrictive bras and opt for soft fabrics. Aim to have lots of 'bare chest' time and use a towel to help soak up any breastmilk leakage.
Express if needed – If your baby hasn’t drained the breast well enough, hand express or pump to relieve pressure. Avoid doing this if you can, but if you require the relief this can be a good back-up.
Use a cold compress after feeding – This helps reduce inflammation and pain within the breast.
When to Seek Help
If you start feeling unwell, develop flu-like symptoms, or notice the area becoming increasingly red and painful, it may indicate mastitis. In this case, it’s important to see a Lactation Consultant or your Midwife straight away.
Blocked ducts can be frustrating and feel overwhelming, but with quick action and the right techniques, they can be resolved at home.
If you're keen to learn more about breastfeeding or want a trusty breastfeeding companion by your side during these times, go and check out the Illoura Birth Breastfeeding eBook. Includes 70 pages of comprehensive breastfeeding information and education to help support and build confidence on this journey. You can find this resource in our shop.
My name is Vanessa Barnard, and I am the founder of Illoura Birth. I am a Doula and Paediatric Nurse. My mission is to support families on the journey to meeting their babies and thereafter with holistic and evidence-based information. My focus is to inspire and boost your confidence on this journey through pregnancy, birth & postpartum.
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