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Mastitis and Blocked Ducts

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blocked ducts

Blocked Ducts: A Common Breastfeeding Issue

Are blocked ducts a pain or mastitis reoccurring issue for your feeding journey?
Nikki Mather at The Baby Element Clinic discusses blocked ducts, sore breasts and mastitis.

Blocked ducts occur when milk flow is impeded due to inflammation and swelling in the breast tissue. This often happens when the milk supply exceeds the baby’s demand, leading to pressure and potential infection.

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Factors Contributing to Mastitis

Feeding Factors

  • Nipple Shields, Pacifiers, and Other Artificial Nipples: These can sometimes affect baby’s sucking pattern and disrupt the breast microbiome.
  • Sudden Changes in Breastfeeding Patterns: Changes in feeding frequency, low milk transfer or duration can contribute to inflammation.
  • Holiday Stress and Entertaining: Being busy during holidays or when entertaining guests can lead to delayed feedings and increased stress.
  • Pumping: Pumping may cause challenges with oversupply, or not effectively drain the breast.
  • Incorrect Suction Pressure: Pump suction pressures that are too high or too low can cause breast and nipple trauma, increasing the risk of mastitis.
  • Pump Flange Size and Regular Checks: Ensure you use the correct pump flange size and regularly check the nipple and areola for signs of irritation or trauma.

Physical Factors

  • Bras, Vests and Swimwear: Underwired bras or tight-fitting in-vest support or swim suits can put pressure on the breast tissue.
  • Bags and Carriers: Heavy bags with straps that cross the breast or baby carriers can cause pressure.
  • Sleep Positions: Changing sleep positions throughout the night can help relieve pressure.
  • Seat Belt Pressure: A tight seat belt strap can cause soreness or injury to the breast.
  • Injuries: Being kicked, hit, or bitten by a child can lead to bruising and inflammation.
  • Prior Breast Surgery, Lumps, or Injuries: These can sometimes contributing factors which affect milk flow and increase the risk of mastitis.

Medical Factors

  • Antibiotics: Recent antibiotic use can disrupt the breast microbiome, increasing the risk of mastitis.
  • Group B Strep and Caesarean Births: Women who test positive for group B strep, have caesarean births or have some tricky interventions in birth may receive antibiotics during labour and birth, potentially affecting the microbiome.
  • Frequent Pumping: Excessive pumping, especially to build up a milk supply or “empty” the breasts, can lead to hyperlactation and inflammation.
Mastitis and Blocked Ducts

Common Causes Of Blocked Ducts & Mastitis

  • Extended Time Between Feedings: If you and your baby are separated for long periods, your breasts may become overly full.
  • Increased Baby Sleep: As your baby sleeps longer, especially at night, breastfeeding frequency may decrease.
  • Teething or Illness: When your baby is teething, has a stuffy nose, or is feeling unwell, they may nurse less frequently.


Treatment and Prevention:

  • Rest and Self-Care: Prioritize rest and care for yourself and your baby.
  • Cold Compresses: Applying cold or ice packs can help reduce inflammation.
  • Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics: In the early stages, antibiotics may not be necessary.
  • Responsive Breastfeeding: Feed your baby on cue to maintain a good milk supply-demand balance.
  • Avoid Excessive Pumping: Pumping more than necessary can lead to hyperlactation and worsen blocked ducts.
  • Ensure Proper Latch and Position: A good latch helps your baby efficiently remove milk.
  • Change Feeding Positions: Varying your feeding positions can increase comfort and milk flow.
  • Wear Supportive Bras: Avoid tight-fitting bras or clothing that restricts breast movement.
  • Consider Lecithin Supplements: While evidence is limited, lecithin supplements may help prevent recurrent blocked ducts.

Remember: If you experience persistent pain, redness, or fever, consult a healthcare professional to rule out mastitis or other infections.

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Mastitis and Blocked Ducts

Avoiding Mastitis and Blocked Ducts: A Guide

What to Avoid:

  • Heat: While warmth can feel soothing, it can actually worsen inflammation.
  • Vigorous Massage: Gentle massage is okay, but strong squeezing can damage breast tissue.
  • Gravity: Dangling over your baby won’t effectively move a clog.
  • Unusual Tools: Avoid using items like combs or vibrators on your breasts.
  • Over-Pumping: Extra pumping or breastfeeding can increase milk production, making it harder to resolve the issue.
  • Immediate Antibiotics: If symptoms are mild, try other methods first. Antibiotics may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Epsom Salts: Epsom salts can irritate the skin and aren’t recommended.
  • Topical Treatments: While some people find relief from warm compresses or oils, they don’t always help.
  • Popping Blebs: Avoid popping nipple blebs, as it can increase the risk of infection.
  • Excessive Sterilization: Daily cleaning of pump parts is sufficient. Routine sterilization isn’t necessary.

Remember: If you experience symptoms of mastitis or blocked ducts, consult a healthcare professional for proper guidance. Early treatment can prevent complications.

Mastitis and Blocked Ducts

Mastitis: A Guide to Treatment and Prevention

Mastitis occurs when ducts in the breast become blocked and inflamed, often due to over-full breasts or changes in breastfeeding patterns. While it can be uncomfortable, it’s usually treatable.

When mastitis occurs, the hallmark redness associated with inflammation can be less visible on darker skin tones.  Instead of pronounced redness, there might be subtle darkening of the skin, increased warmth, or a shiny appearance over the affected area. Swelling, pain, and tenderness remain key indicators, but healthcare providers must be aware that visual cues for Black and Asian people may differ, requiring careful palpation and assessment of temperature changes.

Key Symptoms:

  • Hard, sore lump in the breast
  • Achy, tired feeling
  • Low-grade fever
  • Skin changes (redness, pinkness, or brown discoloration)


Treatment Recommendations:

  • Rest: Get plenty of rest to aid recovery.
  • Cold Compresses: Apply cold packs to reduce inflammation.
  • Continued Breastfeeding: Breastfeed frequently, even on the affected side.
  • Lymphatic Drainage: Gently massage the armpit and upper chest to improve fluid flow.
  • Over-the-Counter Medications: Consider taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain and inflammation.
  • Probiotics: Some studies suggest probiotics may help.
  • Consult a Healthcare Provider: If symptoms worsen or persist, seek medical advice.

Remember: Mastitis is not contagious, and continuing to breastfeed is safe for your baby. Early treatment can prevent complications.

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