Tips for Blocked Ducts from Breastfeeding or Pumping
Blocked ducts can be so painful and come up SO quickly! I got them a lot with my first but thankfully not as much with my second baby.
Here's what can help if you have a blocked duct:
Continue breast/chestfeeding (babies can be super effective!)
Dangle feeding (ie using gravity to help so you're hanging over baby feeding them! Yes this is an acrobatic move)
Have babies chin on the blocked duct as they breast/chestfeed
Ultrasound* (just about the only time I'll say that it's SUPER helpful! Book with me if you live in Toronto!)
Hand expression (sometimes pumping)
Massage (by a trained professional like a Physiotherapist like me!)
Warm compress
Cabbage leaves boiled then cooled and placed on boobs
Stay hydrated and wear loose clothing as well because tight clothes / bra bands can make it worse!
*You can book in to see a Physiotherapist who uses ultrasound for blocked ducts or you can purchase a home ultrasound unit or. Not all PTs will offer treatment for blocked ducts so please check with your physical therapist before booking.
Consult with a lactation consultant or your midwife for advice tailored to you.
If it turns super painful, or becomes mastitis (fever, body aches, pain, you feel like crap), please call your doc!
Did you experience blocked ducts? If you did, what was most helpful for you?
Want support?
Book a physiotherapy consultation with Surabhi at Midwifery Care North Don River Valley (Unit 109, 200 Finch Avenue West, North York, Ontario).
