8 Ways to Clear a Clogged Milk Duct That Won’t Go Away
Seem to have a clogged milk duct that just won’t go away? Looking for ways to get even the most stubborn clogged ducts to clear?
Clogged milk ducts are no joke!
They can be super uncomfortable, downright painful, and can even lead to full fledge mastitis. But some ducts can be extremely difficult to unclog.
How can you get rid of a clog that just won’t seem to go away? How can you get relief fast, so you can stop suffering and enjoy breastfeeding again?
In this post, we’ll cover 8 helpful ways to clear those stubborn clogged ducts.
*Just so you know, this post contains affiliate links. And as an affiliate and Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my full disclosure here.
8 Ways to Clear That Stubborn Clogged Milk Duct
If you’re dealing with a clogged duct that just won’t seem to clear, you’re probably desperate to get that milk flowing again. Use these 8 tips to avoid mastitis and unplug that clog.
1. Nurse or Pump As Usual
I know it’s probably painful, but the best thing you can do when dealing with a clogged duct is to keep nursing and/or pumping. Your baby’s vigorous suck will help get that milk flowing and unplug the duct.
If nursing is just too painful or you’re having trouble with latch, pumping is the next best thing.
If it’s possible, try to spend a few days in bed doing skin-to-skin with your baby. This will encourage nursing and allow you to respond to your baby’s feeding cues.
Be mindful not to over pump/nurse, as that would signal to your body to make even more milk, exacerbating the issue. Stick to your same pumping schedule and/or nursing on demand.
2. Use Cold Compresses
For a long time, the recommendation was to apply warm, moist heat on clogged ducts. But in recent years, they switched this to cold compresses.
I can tell you, I’ve personally had success using both methods.
Cold compresses are great for relief in between feedings. Cold therapy will help reduce swelling and can help slow down milk production just a tad if you’re suffering from an oversupply.
Warm compresses, on the other hand, can help to get the milk flowing. If you do choose to try heat, only do this right before feedings or pumping sessions.
You can use wet washcloths for your compresses, or you can also use breastfeeding marketed products, such as the Bamboobies Soothing Nursing Pillows or the Lansinoh TheraPearl Breast Therapy Packs.
Epsom salt baths can also be a great tool.
3. Gentle Massage
Try massaging the duct when nursing or pumping. If you need both hands for feedings, recruit your partner to help you with this.
When massaging the clog, be sure to press in over the duct and then go towards your nipple. And be sure to massage lightly.
You can also try to massage out the clog while you’re taking a warm shower or bath.
4. Direct Baby's Chin Towards the Clog
Change up your nursing position so that your baby’s chin is directed towards the clog. While your baby is sucking, her chin will help massage the duct and clear the clog.
5. Take Sunflower Lecithin
Sunflower lecithin can help make your milk more viscous and help clear any clog that may potentially cause infection.
It’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements while nursing, but I know many moms (including myself) that have had success taking 1200mg of sunflower lecithin 2-3 times daily.
Make sure it’s sunflower and not soy when purchasing lecithin. Sunflower is much more effective and healthier.
Personally, I prefer the Legendairy Milk brand.
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6. Dangle Feed
Let gravity help clear the clog with dangle feedings.
Lay your baby down on her back and get on all fours right above her. You may need to place your baby on some pillows or a Boppy Lounger to get her at a better height to reach your breast, so you’re not putting too much strain on your back. You may also need your partner to assist you in getting baby latched on, especially if you have a newborn.
Go ahead and nurse your baby in this position. I know it probably feels super awkward, but man does it do the trick!
7. Try Happy Ducts Tincture
Herbs for the win!
Happy Ducts Tincture by WishGarden supports healthy lymphatic function in the breasts, providing relief from clogged ducts and engorgement.
Say goodbye to frustration and pain with this herbal solution.
This stuff was a total lifesaver for me with my last two babies!
8. Therapeutic Ultrasound
If nothing seems to be working, then you may want to look into therapeutic ultrasound of the clogged duct.
Check with lactation consultants and chiropractic offices in your area to see if they offer this service.
When to Worry
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, you may be dealing with a breast infection, commonly known as mastitis. This can get serious quickly, so be sure to contact your midwife or OB if you have any of the following signs:
- Fever
- Chills and/or sweats
- Body aches
- Red breasts
- Breasts feel warm to touch
Tips to Prevent Future Clogs
In order to prevent future clogged ducts, especially if you seem to be susceptible to blockages, then you’ll want to be sure to follow these six quick tips:
- Don’t skip feedings: An abrupt change in your baby’s feeding schedule, particularly going much longer between feedings or skipping a feeding, could lead to engorgement and a backup of milk.
- Avoid tight clothing: Try not to wear tight bras, tanks, or shirts while breastfeeding. It’s also best to avoid underwire bras. Basically, avoid anything that will constrict your breasts.
- Don’t over pump: Only pump each time your baby would be nursing in order to prevent oversupply and blockages. If you’re going back to work and need to start creating a freezer stash, then just pump once a day after your first morning feed.
- Rotate positions: By switching up positions, you’ll help ensure the ducts are getting emptied in all areas of the breast.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can also play a role in clogged ducts, so be sure you’re drinking lots of fluids while breastfeeding.
- Minimize stress: Just like the rest of the muscles in your body, the small muscle fibers in your breasts also require energy and aren’t as efficient when tense. The more relaxed and well rested you are, the easier your milk will flow.
If you do experience recurring clogs, even with using these tips, be sure to schedule an appointment with an IBCLC as soon as possible. Your baby may have a tongue and/or lip tie which could be causing inadequate draining of the breast.
What About You?
Have you ever dealt with some nasty plugged ducts? How’d you get your clogs to clear? Share your best tips in the comments below and be sure to share this post with other breastfeeding moms.