Tips for Plugged Ducts & Mastitis

Tips

May 28

What is a plugged duct?

A clogged milk duct (or plugged duct) is an area in the breast where a duct becomes blocked and milk flow is obstructed.

What are signs/symptoms of a plugged duct:

lump in breast tissue that is tender to touch
pain in in affected area
breast tissue in the area of the clog may be red or feel warm.
may experience decreased milk output from affected breast

What is mastitis?

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast. Mastitis can occur when a plugged duct doesn’t clear and so the build up of milk causes swelling/inflammation leading to an infection. Mastitis can also be caused by bacteria getting into the breast through sore, cracked or damaged nipples.

What are signs/symptoms of mastitis?

pain, swelling and red streaks on the breast
hard, tender lump in breast tissue
fever, body aches, chills

Here are some tips to help clear the plugged duct & treat mastitis

Warm moist compresses frequently. Take a warm bath with magnesium. After heat, apply this ozonated olive oil to lymph nodes near your armpit and the plugged ducts and massage breast. The Lactamo ball is helpful for breast massage.
Dry brush to promote lymph flow. Or you can perform a lymphatic massage. Here is a great video for lymphatic massage.
Haaka/Epsom Salt–add 1-2 tbsp of Epsom salt to your haaka then fill it up with warm water. Suction to breast and let sit for 10 minutes. This could help pull the clog to the surface.
Rest. Lay in bed all day, skin to skin and nurse frequently. Feed the baby on the affected side frequently. Try dangle feeding. If the baby isn’t emptying the breast well (breast does not feel softer after a feeding), hand express.
Stay hydrated. Here are some fluids and minerals to prioritize to support your body:
- Raw milk if available or grass fed milk.
- Coconut water.
- Bone Broth.
- Orange juice (can add Mitigate Stress Master Mineral Drink).
- Water with Crucial Four Salt or CT Minerals.
- Original Quinton
Here are supplements to have on hand: