Tips for blocked duct!

[edin16]

Any tips for a big blocked milk duct?

I've tried massage, shower and massage, feeding on all fours and using the breast pump on all fours? I'll continue with the feedings on all fours but if it's not gone by the morning I'll have to call the HV or GP which I really don't want to do.

No particular tips on unblocking I'm afraid but just wanted to say please don't just leave it unless it gets completely better. I had what started as a blocked duct and just sort of got used to the swelling and pain. I did speak to the midwife about it a few times but was just fobbed off with advice to out cabbage leaves on it/massage etc so didn't think it could be anything serious. Eventually I ended up getting really ill as it was infected and needed surgery to drain it. It would have been much better if I'd made a bit more of a fuss about getting some treatment earlier.

I’ve heard people talk about using the back of an electric toothbrush (no bristles!) to massage the lump and move towards the nipple. Apparently the vibrations can help.

I used a mild facial acid exfoliator and it worked well.

Note:NOT a physical exfoliator like a scrub, but a mild facial peel/toner, like glycolic acid (Superdrug do own brand liquid or pads for £6ish for example)

I washed the nipple, dabbed on the face acid, left in place until next feed, washed off before feeding, then after feeding gave it a little help to loosen the contents.

Worked really well when I was desperate, good luck!!

Advocate for electric toothbrush and massaging in the bath with a little oil

Sorry I’m tired and realised I’ve misunderstood you - my advice is for a milk bleb, not a blocked duct.

Sorry I really need to get some sleep!

Take 400mg (4 hours) of ibuprofen. Position the baby so the top if their mouth is on the blocked duct. Keep feeding until it clears. Gently massage whilst baby feeding and when off. And use the haka type silicone pump bottle. That will give you strong suction but without "pumping" the breast. Ibuprofen and baby position is key x

LaVie Lactation Massage Roller, I ordered it from Amazon. I use this and a hot water bottle. I can’t spend a long time in the shower hence the water bottle