Recurring blocked ducts

[Glooorb]

Hi there, in the past 2/3 weeks I have been suffering from recurring blocked milk ducts in my breasts, resulting in large lumps. Basically I would clear a lump after 2 days, have a 2 day break, and then lumps back again. They are across the top of my left breast (like a roof over the left) and under the arm pit on right.

Whenever there is a lump, I;

• hot compress before feeding
• circular general breast massage
• during feeding, I massage with electric vibrator (LaVie) and with my hand to push the lump towards the nipple
• I take lecithin 1200mg 3 times a day
• ibuprofen a couple of times a day (trying not to take too much)

Unfortunately I'm still getting the lumps. I've also spoken to a lactation consultant to check over the latch and no issues there. Also sometimes the lumps on one boob will seem to have disappeared / very much reduced after a feed, but by the time LO finishes on the other breast, the lumps are already back!! What is with that?

Just wanted to see if anyone is in the same boat, and can share their experience? If anyone has any suggestions/ solution that will be great. I hate these lumps with a passion and my mental health is suffering. X

I had some issues with lumps in my left breast with my first, and I found taking a hot shower, let the water rain down on my breasts for a minute, and using my hands to massage and express was very helpful. I would even take several showers a day if needed. I would pop the baby in their seat and take him into the bathroom with me. I hope you get this sorted soon.

Try dangle feeding. It really helps shift the blockage. How often are you feeding? If you don’t drain the breast at each feed it is worth expressing afterwards to make sure it’s ‘empty’ - I know you can’t actually empty a breast, but until it’s soft.

kellymom.com/bf/concerns/mother/dangle-feeding/

If the lumps are returning quickly it means you haven’t cleared the initial blockage. You’ll know when you do because the milk that comes out is thick and stringy, and can be tinged with blood.

I had this with my eldest. I came on to recommend lecithin but you’re already doing that. My only other suggestion is to increase the amount of water you drink. Lots of water and lecithin solved it for me.

I used to get blebs (I think they’re called). Little bits of thickened milk stuck at the end of the duct on the nipple. Worth checking if you have those. It looks like a grain of salt ie small and white. I used a sterile needle to get them out!

Good luck.

Thanks everyone! Good to know that others have been in the same boat