Blocked milk duct for 4 weeks - advice please

[MissusBeee]

I have been suffering from a blocked milk duct in my left boob for 4 weeks - I am ebf and it started when ds was only 2 weeks. Each time I come off antibiotics, mastitis returns so now been on antibiotics continually until the lump goes away. It keeps it under control, but hardly a long term solution...

I have a plum sized lump that I've been massaging, applying heat, feeding from left side first, varying positions, dangle feeding etc. I'm taking lecithin supplements too and keep checking for milk blebs on my nipples, but so far nothing.

Does anyone hav any advice- what can I do to finally shift it?

Has anyone else had a blocked duct for this long and what finally cleared yours.

I continually kept gettin blocked ducts like you. my advice is an electric boob pump. and cold cabbage leaves. use the electric pump to completly drain the boob (may hurt but worth it when it shifts). it helps move the blockage. you can then get your partner to do the next feed from expressed milk and have a sleep. cabbage leaves in between help with the pain. put them in the fridge/freezer depending on how quick you need relief. put one inside each bra cup, its the right shape the thickness means it wont go manky its suprisingly comfy . and the cold takes out the heat. honestly sounds weird but works. i think you can only manage it im afraid .

Please please make a fuss about this to your GP. I was in the same boat as you (lump wouldn't shift, antibios not working that well), and ended up needing surgery for an abscess. I'm not saying that is what you have, but you do need to get these things treated quickly.

I waited around, convinced that enough massage and continuous feeding and hot compresses would get it out...it didn't. My personal view is that if these techniques haven't shifted it within a week, you need some doctor help.

Thanks so much for your replies. it's good to know i'm not alone.

update: after my GP ruled out an abscess on Monday, it's just been confirmed an abscess by a lovely out of hours GP and then A&E surgeon. Mastitis symptoms returned on Friday evening despite anti biotics so I went to out of hours primary care.

I've now had the abscess drained (40mls aspirated with a needle). I felt better instantly. Still to take the antibiotics for another week and follow up with the breast clinic, but hopefully now getting there.

I'm pleased it seems to be being dealt with properly now.

I've only ever had blocked ducts for a few days at a time so can only imagine how uncomfortable it must have been for you to have that for so long

Fingers crossed you get back to 100% soon.