What Is A Blocked Or Plugged Duct?
As mentioned earlier, the milk is produced in the alveoli of the breast. This flows down the milk ducts and collects under the dark portion of the breast called the areola. Sometimes, thickened milk may block a particular duct. The milk starts collecting behind this obstruction and this leads to the formation of a hard lump. In case of only a blocked duct, the mother does not have any fever and looks otherwise well. A blocked duct must be treated. Otherwise, infection can set in, leading to mastitis and breast abscess. In mastitis, a portion of the breast feels hot, swollen and becomes painful. In an abscess, the swelling, when examined, appears to be full of fluid. A lump due to a blocked duct should be gently massaged towards the nipple to help empty that part of the breast. The baby should be fed more frequently from that breast. If you have been feeding lying down (which is otherwise correct), try feeding in a sitting position. You can also try holding the baby under your arm, inst
