How to clear a blocked milk duct

A tender or firm area often improves as swelling settles and milk continues to move. Feed according to your baby's cues rather than trying to empty the breast. If feeding is painful, check positioning and attachment with a lactation professional.

The phrase blocked duct commonly describes a local area of breast inflammation and narrowed milk flow. You may notice tenderness, fullness, a firm patch or discomfort during feeding. It is not necessarily a solid plug that needs to be squeezed out.

Long gaps between feeds, pressure from clothing, an oversupply of milk or pumping more than needed can contribute. Breast pain has several possible causes, so persistent symptoms deserve assessment.

Continue breastfeeding if you can, starting on either breast according to comfort and your baby's cues. Support the breast without deep kneading. A cool pack wrapped in cloth after a feed can reduce swelling; warmth may be used briefly if it feels soothing.

Wear a supportive bra that does not compress the sore area. Rest, drink to thirst and use only pain relief that is suitable for you. Avoid repeatedly pumping, vigorous vibration, digging with fingers or asking another person to suck the breast, because these can worsen tissue injury or swelling.

Seek prompt medical advice if you develop fever, chills, flu-like illness, spreading redness, rapidly increasing pain, pus, or a soft swelling that could contain fluid. Arrange an assessment if the firm area does not improve, keeps returning, or feeding becomes too painful to continue.

Urgent help is appropriate if you feel faint, confused, very unwell or unable to keep fluids down. A clinician can check for mastitis, an abscess, nipple damage or another cause and decide whether medicine or imaging is needed.

Ask whether your symptoms fit inflammation, infection or another breast problem; whether your feeding or pumping pattern needs adjustment; which pain relief is compatible with breastfeeding; and where to obtain skilled feeding support.