Plugged or Blocked Milk Ducts
Important information:
If you are breast/chest feeding or pumping, you may experience a plugged, blocked, or clogged milk duct. If you feel a tender hard lump in your breast/chest and milk is slower to drain from that side, you may have a plugged or blocked duct.
Causes of a plugged or blocked milk duct
Symptoms include:
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Tender lump in one area of your breast/chest. The lump is firm to touch and may feel bumpy or smooth. It is not very painful unless it gets large.
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No fever
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May see tiny white milk plugs (blebs) on the opening of your nipple
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May come on suddenly or gradually
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If not treated, may lead to mastitis, a serious condition
Tips to prevent plugged milk ducts:
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Breast/chestfeed or pump often, at least 8-12 times a day.
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Massage your breast/chest during feeding or pumping to empty out all milk.
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Avoid tight clothing, underwire bras, or straps that would compress your breasts/chest.
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Avoid exhaustion and fatigue.
Instruction to treat plugged milk ducts:
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Continue to breast/chestfeed and pump. Breast/chestfeed on your plugged side first.
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Massage your breast/chest. Apply firm pressure starting at the outside of your breast/chest moving towards the plug. May use a gentle handheld massager. Massage before and during feeding/pumping, right after hot shower/bath, or while leaning into a bowl of hot water.
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If not resolved in 24-48 hours or if a fever or flu-like symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider to be evaluated for mastitis.
Reviewed July 2024 by Meghan Devine BSN, RN, IBCLC