Diagnose a Plugged Milk Duct
Breastfeeding (nursing) your baby can be a comfortable and relaxing experience, though some problems can be expected, especially during the first weeks of breastfeeding. Although most problems can be treated at home, proper diagnosis is important so professional help can be sought if required.
Instructions
Symptoms and Causes
1. Check the symptoms. More than likely, if you have a plugged milk duct the symptoms will find you so they're not hard to look for. Usually the breast will feel very sore, have a tender spot, or a lump that is extra sore. Redness of the skin often accompanies the lump or tender spot.
2. Review the history. Plugged milk ducts can be caused any number of ways. Some include incorrect positioning of the baby while feeding, extended amounts of time between nursings, giving supplementary bottles, overusing a pacifier, or wearing a nursing bra or other clothing that is too tight and inhibits milk flow.
3. If an older baby suddenly starts sleeping through the night, or nurses often one day and cuts way back the next day, a plugged milk duct may occur. Periodically a plugged duct may also be caused by dried milk secretions covering one of the nipple openings. If any of the aforementioned situations apply to you and your baby, a plugged milk duct is likely.
Treat the Problem
4. Apply heat (wet or dry).
5. Get plenty of rest. Spend the day in bed if at all possible.
6. Nurse and nurse again. The more frequent the nursings on the affected side, the more empty the breast so milk will flow more freely.
7. Also, wear looser clothing and bra (or ditch the bra for a day or two). Check the baby's position while nursing or try nursing in a different position.
8. The sooner you take precautions toward treatment, the better your chances of preventing mastitis (or a breast infection).
Tags: milk duct, Diagnose Plugged, Diagnose Plugged Milk, Milk Duct, tender spot
