How to Avoid Clogged Ducts and Mastitis (Because Nobody Has Time for That)

A clogged milk duct is one of the most common and uncomfortable challenges many breastfeeding parents face. It occurs when a duct becomes blocked, preventing breast milk from flowing freely to the nipple. This backup creates pressure, often leading to inflammation in the surrounding tissue and causing localized pain or tenderness.

Clogged ducts fall on the spectrum of inflammatory breast conditions, which means the goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation not just to “clear the clog.” Understanding how to treat a clogged duct safely and effectively can make all the difference in healing quickly and preventing complications like mastitis.

What to Do

• Use Ice or Cold Packs Between Feedings
  Applying cold helps reduce inflammation by causing vasoconstriction (narrowing of the blood vessels), which decreases blood flow to the area. This can offer noticeable relief between nursing or pumping sessions.

• Nurse or Pump on Demand

  Stick to your regular feeding schedule. If you’re in the process of weaning or if your baby’s feeding habits have changed, hand express or pump just enough to relieve pressure. This helps your body gradually adjust without overstimulating milk production.

• Talk to Your Medical Provider About NSAIDs
  Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can help reduce both pain and inflammation. Be sure to consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially while breastfeeding.

• Try Gentle Lymphatic Massage
  Start by gently massaging the armpit area, then use light strokes moving from the clogged duct toward the armpit before nursing or pumping. This technique supports the natural lymphatic flow and can help reduce swelling.

• Get Rest and Stay Hydrated
  It’s easier said than done, especially in the early postpartum period, but adequate rest and hydration are essential for healing. Inflammation often worsens with physical stress and dehydration, so do your best to prioritize recovery.

What to Avoid

• Don’t Use Warm Compresses
  Although often recommended, heat actually causes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which can worsen inflammation and prolong symptoms. Stick with cold therapy instead.

• Avoid Adding Extra Nursing or Pumping Sessions
  It might seem like more feeding would “clear the clog,” but overdoing it signals your body to make more milk. Since milk is made from blood, increased milk production can lead to increased inflammation.

• Skip the Epsom Salt Soaks
  While popular on social media, there’s no strong evidence that Epsom salt soaks help clogged ducts, and they may irritate already sensitive tissue.

• No Vigorous Breast Massage
  Rough or deep massage can cause tissue trauma, which actually worsens inflammation and may even lead to bruising or injury. Stick with gentle lymphatic techniques instead.

When and Where to Seek Help

Contact your local IBCLC immediately to help address the root cause of the clogged duct, intervene quickly to prevent it from worsening and turning into mastitis, and seek therapeutic ultrasound treatment to address the inflammation for quick relief

When to Call Your Doctor
If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop a fever of 100.4°F or higher, contact your OB-GYN or primary care provider immediately. A clogged duct can quickly escalate into mastitis if left untreated, so don’t wait to seek help.

Clogged ducts can be painful and discouraging, but they’re also manageable with the right care. If you need additional support or have questions about your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out. Breastfeeding challenges are common and you’re not alone.

You’re doing an incredible job. This is hard work, and your baby is lucky to have you.