Taking care of a painful plugged duct

QUESTION: I have tried all the Q&A’s you have on dealing with a plugged duct. I still have a lot of pain and a huge lump on the left breast. It hurts when she nurses but I have always begun a feeding on that same side and have let her nurse as long as necessary changing her position etc. How long does it take to clear up? Am I doing all I can? I have no fever or flu symptoms. Could it be something else? It has been the same for about 3 days. I am massaging at every nursing and even taking hot showers and wearing a sleep bra during the day so as not to apply any pressure to this area. What should I do?

Marianne,

It really sounds like you are very frustrated with this plugged duct!! It would be very helpful if you could explain in detail what you have done to get rid of this plugged duct. If it is possible, keep a 24 hour record of your day including nursing times, diet, massage and heat. A plugged duct can generally clear up in 24-48 hours; however, it is very important that the mother rest.

Since this plugged duct has not cleared up within the usual 48 hours, I would strongly recommend that you take a mini-24 hour vacation!!

1) In the next 24 hours do nothing but nurse Libbie or pump every 2 hours. If you do not have a good quality electric pump, I recommend that you rent one for a day or two so that you have a good pump available,

2) maintain heat on the plugged duct and gently massage the area. Marianne, if you have a heating pad you can maintain it on your breast on low being careful to have a towel or two directly on top of your breast so that you don't cause any harm or you can place warm face towels that have been kept in a warm bath and changing them frequently. I must emphasize that you take great care to make sure that you do not burn the breast tissue!!

3) REST.

Marianne, the fact that you have no fever or flu-like symptoms is a good sign that this may just be a persistent plugged duct. You can also soak the breast in a bowl of warm epson salt water before feeding or pumping which has worked for many moms when other steps have failed. Add 2 Tbs. of ES to a 3 cup bowl and soak the breast for 5 minutes or so. Then while feeding or pumping (I prefer feeding so that an oversupply doesn't develop) you can massage the breast or you can massage while soaking.

Good luck.

Yvonne C. Bannister, B Sc, CBC, LLLL, IBCLC

Important Disclaimer

This Breastfeeding.com service is designed to help visitors obtain advice and guidance. You are solely responsible for the outcome of any services and/or advice you are given.   Breastfeeding.com is not responsible for any services and/or advice given by the consultants, and shall not be liable or responsible to any person or entity for any loss or damage caused, or alleged to be have been caused, directly or indirectly by the information or ideas contained, suggested, or referenced. Your participation in this service is solely at your own risk