Plugged Ducts
A plugged duct usually feels like a tender lump in the breast. It may be warm and have some redness over the lump.
Plugged ducts can happen when milk is not drained well from the breast. This can happen when there is too much pressure inside the breast. Examples might be:
- Baby not sucking well
- Not “emptying” the breast
- Skipped feeding
- Breast too full
- Oversupply of milk
- Weaning too quickly
Pressure outside the breast may also cause a plugged duct. A few examples might be:
- Tight fitting bras
- Bunched clothing pushing on breast
- Car seats or baby carrier straps
- Mothers fingers if pushing on breast in one spot for prolonged time
What can you try to do if you get a plugged duct?
- Breastfeed more frequently, starting with the breast with the lump. It may help to have your baby’s nose or chin pointing to the blockage.
- Use warm wet washcloths to area for a few minutes.
- Massage breast during the feeding or in the shower. Try pressing behind the lump, massage toward the nipple. Or soak the breast in a bowl of warm water.
- After breastfeeding express some milk by hand or pump to help milk drainage.
- Don’t forget to take care of yourself, get rest, eat, drink fluids to thirst.
You should call a certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) or health professional trained in lactation support if you are not improving within 24 hours.
Plugged ducts can lead to mastitis. If you are having flu-like symptoms, achy, fever, chills, red, hot area over lump or red streaking you need to call your doctor to get on antibiotics.
Contact us
For additional information on this Health Topic, call the Center for Breastfeeding Medicine at 513-636-2326.
Rev. 5/09
