Buzz
Blocked milk ducts are a constant source of anxiety for mothers, yet many are unaware of the reasons behind this issue. Today, Mytour aims to address these concerns and provide answers for mothers seeking clarity.
What is Blocked Milk Duct?
Blocked milk duct occurs when the milk duct's pathway is obstructed, either at the nipple or along the milk duct, near the mammary gland.
Causes of Blocked Milk Ducts:
The primary cause of blocked milk ducts is improper latch by babies, leading to nipple inflammation. This inflammation can result in constriction and blockage of the milk duct. Other contributing factors may include maternal stress, incorrect breastfeeding postures, and nipple trauma.
Other Ailments Affecting Maternal Milk Supply Besides Blocked Milk Ducts
During the breastfeeding period, mothers encounter various breast-related issues apart from blocked milk ducts. Firstly, cracked nipples, inflammation, and bleeding can occur. Many mothers improperly latch their babies, use breast pumps incorrectly, and employ ineffective manual expression techniques, impacting the mother's milk supply.
Ailment 2: After 3 days postpartum, mothers may experience mature milk without immediate breastfeeding, leading to quick blockages, hardness, and pain in the breast.
Ailment 3: Commonly experienced by breastfeeding mothers, this ailment involves milk duct blockage and ductal inflammation. There are two categories: duct blockage without bacterial invasion and mammary gland inflammation, also known as mastitis and breast abscess.
There are other conditions such as plugged ducts or breast cancer, among others.
Consequences of Blocked Milk Ducts?
The aftermath of blocked milk ducts depends on the extent of duct obstruction. If the affected area is small, it may cause pain and a lump without significantly impacting the mother's milk production.
A larger affected area can lead to a reduction in the mother's milk supply. When experiencing ductal inflammation, the mother's body introduces anti-inflammatory factors altering the taste of the milk, making it richer and slightly saltier than usual. Some sensitive babies may notice this change and refuse to breastfeed.
Effectiveness of Folk Remedies?
Traditional remedies often suggest unscientific methods to treat blocked milk ducts. While some mothers may find relief, these methods can also result in breast damage.
Various herbal remedies like dandelion, evening primrose oil, etc., are believed to reduce swelling more than clearing duct blockages. Some herbs may even cause burns or skin irritation, so mothers should use them cautiously.
While some mothers experience relief using these remedies, the primary reason for clearing blocked milk ducts is often the baby's suction force, rather than the mentioned herbs.
Early Detection of Blocked Milk Ducts:
After breastfeeding or expressing milk, if a specific area of the breast feels painful or the mother experiences breast discomfort despite not feeling any lumps upon touch, delayed signs may include a swollen and reddened milk duct, possibly accompanied by fever, fatigue, and headaches. When encountering these symptoms, mothers should seek medical attention.
Preventing Blocked Milk Ducts:
Mothers should feed their babies on schedule, with each feeding lasting around 10–15 minutes. Avoid letting the baby suck on the nipple while sleeping. Ensure the baby finishes each breast before switching sides; if not, express the remaining milk. Keep the nipple area clean, especially the crevices. Before breastfeeding, clean and express a few drops of milk, and after feeding, clean the nipple. If any duct feels blocked during expression or if the flow is inconsistent, gently massage the breast to soften it. Regular use of a breast pump can also prevent blocked milk ducts.
Mothers should stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet, including meat, fish, eggs, dairy, and fiber-rich fruits and vegetables. Limit saturated fats to reduce the risk of blocked milk ducts.
Remember to drink plenty of water and maintain a well-rounded diet, including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, along with fiber from fruits and vegetables. Limit saturated fats to prevent blocked milk ducts.
TOP 5 PRODUCTS TO ASSIST WITH BREAST MILK DUCT BLOCKAGE IN MOMS
For your consideration: Medela Breast Pump
