Stubborn Plugged Ducts

[undesigned]

I've been exclusively pumping for the last 5 months. Two days ago I noticed that my left breast felt a little different and discovered some hardening and a lump. I think it might be due to having a cold, being tired and wearing a tight shirt several days ago. I thought it would resolve itself but it didn't so I spent yesterday in bed, pumping, using hot compresses, taking hot showers, massaging the area - but the clogs still remain and are very tender and painful! My pumping output is very low in the affected breast too. Is there anything else that I can do? Will the plugged ducts eventually resolve themselves? I'm terrified that it'll become mastitis. Should I should go see a doctor on Monday - is there something he can do or prescribe now before it becomes mastitis? I'm pumping right now and am not having any luck dislodging these stubborn ducts. Any advice would be much appreciated.

[Siera]

They should resolve themselves, but watch out for redness on your breasts, fever, and/or flu-like symptoms. Your are doing everything right. Try the hot compresses right before you pump and massage at the same time. When you pump, have someone help you massage the areas while you are pumping to help dislodge them. A nurse recommended I apply cold after I pumped. I've done that, but don't know if that ever really did anything. You could also take Tylenol or Motrin for the pain. No need to go to the doctor unless you really believe you have an infection. Otherwise, ducts are common, especially with pumping and will usually correct themselves. However, they are soooo painful in the meantime. And, don't be alarmed by your output. When there are clogs, your output on the affected breast will be low. It is no indication, however, of your overall supply. Keep pumping! Good luck!

[AutumnAir]

I agree with Siera.

You may have already dislodged the clogs - the area can stay very tender for a few days afterwards. Also, I would recommend taking Lecithin (1200mg 4x daily). I had a lot of trouble with plugged ducts for months; since starting to take Lecithin supplements I've only had two mild cases in over 8 months (touch wood!).

[undesigned]

Thanks Siera and AutumnAir. So the plugged ducts could possibly be dislodged even though I can still feel lumps? I've been massaging so hard that I think my poor breast is bruised from the pressure. I'm just a little worried that it's taking so long since everything I've read has said they should resolve within 48 hours and I'm on Day 3. I'm definitely going to buy some Lecithin!

[undesigned]

My situation has improved, still a little plugged but it's much better than yesterday. However, my pumping output in the affected breast is still much lower. Will this change or have I permanently damaged my supply? I'm only pumping about an ounce each time now.

[Siera]

Glad to hear its better! No, I dont' think you can permanently damage your supply with plugged ducts. You will definitely still feel sore after they have dislodged and sometimes you can still feel a mass. Sounds like you are working them out. It definitely is tougher to unclog them via a pump than it is with a baby! I would keep working on them and don't stress about the output. Just assume your supply will come back up once this has resolved itself and keep thinking happy thoughts. Lots of worry will negatively affect your supply, too. And, make sure you're getting plenty of rest and drinking lots of water!

[TefferTWH]

A rolled cabbage leaf does wonders with plugged ducts, but it will affect your supply.

[MAMom]

Dr. Jack Newman has info about plugged ducts on his website. He describes a theraputic ultrasound protocal to help resolve plugged ducts, if you can find a practicioner to do it.

Rest as much as you can, too!