Ways To Manage Clogged Milk Ducts & Mastitis

Managing mastitis and clogged milk ducts can be complicated and often chronic. There is no easy solution or quick fix. The sooner you start managing the problem the better. I have talked with a number of family members, fellow church members, friends, doctors, and a lactation expert as well as read online about ways to cope with this condition. Below I have listed things that I have found to be a help in coping with clogged milk ducts and mastitis.


DIET

Vitamin C: Oranges, Grapefruit, Mangoes, Cranberry Juice- boosts your immune system.

Spicy Foods: Curry, Ginger- decrease inflammation.

Salads, Fruits, vegetables

Do not eat oats as they increase your milk supply.


MEDICINE

Ibuprofen- decreases breast inflammation, decreases pain.

Lecithin- works against saturated fats and clogs.

Calcium/ Magnesium

Antibiotic


LIFESTYLE

Rest

Yoga

Walking

No heavy lifting.

Try to avoid repetitive arm motions.

Seat belts, bags, baby carriers, holding your baby against you, and carrying groceries may worsen your
condition.

Sleeping can be a real trick, position yourself in whatever way gives you the least amount of clogs.


HEAT & MASSAGE

Massage breasts before, during, after each feeding, and randomly throughout the day as doing so may release clogs.

Warm showers and massage can increase blood flow to the area and loosen clogs.

Heating pads can be uncomfortable and increase inflammation.

Ice packs can harden clogs and slow milk flow.

CLOTHING

No under-wire bras. They tend to cause clogs.

Sports bras provide good support.

Wear loose-fitting clothing.

Wear a sports bra or sleep bra to prevent sternum pain due to heavy breasts.


SCHEDULE

Feed every 3 hours to prevent over-abundant milk supply from coming in.

Wake baby to feed during the night.

Feed baby in different positions to fully empty breast.


DOCTORS

If you have fever, red breasts, and lots of pain, see a doctor. You will need antibiotic to clear up infection.


RISK FACTORS

Fibrocystic breasts, genetics, diabetes, and a low immune system may be risk factors for clogged ducts and mastitis.


References:

Le Leche League
Oconee Physician Practices
BabyCenter
KellyMom
Wikipedia