Cause:
The narrow passages or ducts that carry
newly-produced milk from the milk-producing cells to the collecting
pools can become blocked. When feedings are delayed or missed or when
the baby nurses poorly, milk can collect in the ducts and form a thick
plug or a small lump. The area may or may not be painful.
Recommended Treatment:
-
Put warm water on the plugged area
before each feeding.
-
Breastfeed more often during the day.
-
Begin each feeding on the breast with
the plug.
-
Adjust the position of the baby's mouth
on the breast (baby's nose or chin pointing toward the plug) to help
remove the plug.
-
Gently massage the plugged area while
the baby is nursing.
-
Pump or hand express after each feeding
to help remove the plug and relieve the fullness.
-
Breastfeed in a position that will best
relieve the fullness in the plugged portion of the breast.
To Prevent Plugged
Ducts:
-
Position the baby correctly on the
breast.
-
Use 2-3 different nursing positions
each day.
-
Do not delay or miss feedings.
-
If necessary, pump or hand express to
relieve fullness.
-
Avoid bras that are too tight or bind
making it difficult to relieve fullness in all parts of the breast.
Avoid bras with underwires.
| 
