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What causes blocked milk ducts?

Milk ducts can get blocked when milk is not drained well from the breast and thickens inside the ducts. Some things that can add to the risk of a duct getting blocked are: going too long without feeding, skipping feeds; poor feeding and attachment technique; a period of switching from breastfeeding to expressing milk (as with a mother returning to work); not emptying the breast during a feed (often a result of switching the baby too early to the other breast), and; physical pressure on the breast, or part of it (as in an ill-fitting bra or the straps of a baby carrier).

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What are blocked milk ducts?

Breastmilk is produced in the mammary glands within the breast, and flows through milk ducts to the nipple. These ducts can become blocked, causing the breast to become tender and sore.

What are the symptoms of blocked milk ducts?

Signs of a blocked milk duct include: the breast is sore, hot or tender to the touch; a soft or firm lump can be felt in the breast under the skin; the skin over the affected area may appear bluish in color, and; sometimes a white dot can be …

How are blocked milk ducts treated?

Blocked ducts can often unblock by themselves after a day or two. Massage and warm compresses, soaking the breast in warm water, improving feeding technique, more frequent feeds, continuing to breastfeed, and resting and cuddling with your baby can help …

Will a blocked milk duct clear on its own?

In most cases, a blocked milk duct will clear on its own within a day or two.

Can blocked milk ducts be prevented?

Good feeding technique, frequent feeds and breast draining, and avoiding pressure on the breast will help prevent blockage of milk ducts.

Will blocked milk ducts keep coming back?

Milk ducts can become blocked again. Some women are more susceptible to this than others.

Are blocked milk ducts serious?

Although it can be painful, a blocked milk duct is not a serious condition. If it does not resolve after two days or so, your doctor may suspect mastitis.

How common are blocked milk ducts?

About two-thirds of breastfeeding mothers experience blocked milk ducts at some point.

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 14 Jul 2015
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Votes: 144 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Breastmilk engorgement

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