How to treat blocked milk ducts at home

When a milk duct is blocked, you will notice a hard, red lump in the breast. If the milk is not removed, it can cause inflammation of the breast tissue (mastitis).

Here is how to deal with blocked milk ducts:

- Breastfeed correctly, make sure your baby latches well and feeds often, as this is the best way to relieve and prevent blocked ducts.

- If your baby does not feed directly at the breast, express or pump milk every 2 hours. Do not let milk build up in the breast for more than 3 hours.

- You can apply a warm towel for 10 minutes before breastfeeding or expressing. However, if the breast is already red and inflamed, do not apply heat any more.

- You can apply a cool towel for 10 minutes after breastfeeding or expressing to reduce inflammation and ease breast pain.

- Rest, relax and avoid stress. Stress can make blocked ducts worse.

- Limit fatty foods. Fat can make milk thicker, so the ducts block more easily.

- Regular breast massage helps prevent and relieve blocked ducts.

- Wear a comfortable bra.

You can also look up breast massage techniques for blocked ducts. However, if you have tried to manage it but the blockage does not improve or gets worse after 24-48 hours, see a doctor at a medical facility.

Reference: hongngochospital.vn