Plugged or blocked milk ducts are caused by plugging, blockage or poor drainage of a milk duct or section of the breast. It often follows incomplete drainage, skipped feedings or stress.

One symptom of a plugged duct is a tender lump in one area of the breast that causes pain, but no fever. A blocked milk duct may also include a tiny white milk plug (bleb) seen in an opening on the nipple. Onset of the plugged or blocked milk ducts — and the pain that accompanies it — may be gradual but if the condition is not treated it can lead to breast mastitis, a more serious condition. 

Tips to prevent plugged milk ducts

• Breastfeed or pump often, at least 8-12 times per day
• Manually massage the breast during feeding or pumping to help milk drain
• Avoid tight clothing, underwire bras or tight straps on a baby carrier
• Avoid exhaustion and fatigue

What to do if you get plugged milk ducts

• Continue frequent breastfeeding or pumping
• Begin feeding on the affected side to help drain the breast
• Massage before and during feeding to help milk flow
• Apply firm pressure starting at the outside of the breast moving towards the plug
• Massage the plug while in a hot shower or bath
• Soak the breast by leaning over a bowl of warm water and massaging the breast
• Change breastfeeding positions
• Some women report that lecithin prevents recurrence of plugged ducts