I wanted to talk quickly about blocked ducts when mothers are breastfeeding. I am seeing quite a few mothers with this problem, so I wanted to mention what to do if you find one. Blocked ducts happen sometimes when the mother is very tired or there is a change of routine i.e. skipped a feed or baby started solid food or is drinking less. Another cause could simply be your bra. Bras with underwire should not be worn. They can press on the breast and create pressure. Moms will feel a lump in their breast that is tender and sore. The important thing to know is to make sure you are not having mastitis. With a blocked duct you have NO fever NO redness. It is very important to know the difference.
The simpler way to treat is to start soaking the breast in a bowl of hot water with a bit of epsom salt 5 minutes before the feed. Massage the breast while the baby is well latched to help the milk flow. If after doing all these techniques, it is still present you can get ultrasound therapy done. The ultrasound creates a deep heat which helps the blocked duct. I do ultrasound on the mothers breasts for 8minutes and she will feed the baby right away. Usually within one or two visits the blocked duct disappears and the mother is quite relieved. So pass on the information not everybody is aware that ultrasound can help with blocked duct!!!
If the mother is having repetitive blocked ducts, she can also take lecithin. It is a supplement which will change the viscosity of the milk and make it less sticky if you would like. Moms can take 1200mg 3-4 x per day.
With this information if you have a blocked duct try the heat, massage the lump and if does not go away try ultrasound. Hope you find this helpful if you know moms that are nursing pass on the information! Obviously if things get worse then consult your health professional right away.
Valerie
