Are you experiencing a blocked breast duct? If so, you're not alone. Clogged ducts are a common issue for breastfeeding mothers, and the good news is that most can be resolved without any additional measures in a couple of days. While some clogged ducts can go away on their own, most will require additional steps to be taken. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can help you identify the underlying cause of the obstruction, determine the best treatment method for you, and develop a plan to prevent obstruction in the future.
Here's what you need to know about clearing up clogged breast ducts. Regular and consistent breastfeeding is the fastest way to get rid of a duct obstruction. It is essential to completely empty the breast with the blocked duct during each breastfeeding session. A fully drained breast feels lighter and produces little or no milk when squeezed. Clogged ducts usually disappear within 24 to 48 hours. Most blocked ducts can go away in a day or two, with or without treatment, and regular breastfeeding or breast pumping sessions are the fastest way to resolve clogged ducts.
Clogged galactophore ducts are hard lumps that form in the galactophore ducts of the breast and prevent or obstruct the flow of milk. Duct blockage usually occurs if the woman who is breastfeeding has not completely drained her breast, as milk can accumulate and block the duct. A blocked duct usually disappears after 24 to 48 hours, and because the breast contains four to 18 galactophore ducts, the obstruction of a few ducts does not automatically mean that the supply of breast milk is exhausted. Clogged ducts occur when milk flow is obstructed, causing pressure to build up behind the duct and irritating surrounding tissue. Ducts are more likely to clog if the woman who is breastfeeding does not drain her breast well, as this can allow milk to accumulate and block the duct.
Very rarely, women can block the galactophore ducts for reasons that are not related to breastfeeding, such as ductal ectasia, which is a non-cancerous breast condition. If you are experiencing a blocked breast duct, it is important to seek help from an IBCLC who can help you identify the underlying cause and develop a plan for treatment and prevention. With regular and consistent breastfeeding sessions, most clogged ducts will clear up on their own within 24 to 48 hours. It's important to remember that while most clogged ducts can be resolved without any additional measures in a couple of days, it's always best to consult an IBCLC if you're experiencing any issues with your breasts or your baby's feeding habits. An IBCLC can help you identify any underlying causes of your blocked ducts and develop a plan for treatment and prevention.