A Clogged Milk Duct
Many women who have breast-fed an infant understand the agony of a clogged milk duct. A clogged milk duct creates an almost indescribable feeling and can lead to infection if not treated effectively. However, home treatment for a clogged milk duct is generally successful. The following are recommendations for unclogging a mild cut and bringing relief from the pain. With any pain, should it continue, it is always best to contact a physician.
Instructions
1. Nurse your baby more often, or pump the breast by hand or with a breast pump.
2. Massage the clogged duct (it feels like a small lump), using a pushing motion toward the nipple. You can do this while feeding your infant or while pumping.
3. Place a heating pad or a warm and moist towel over the clogged area. Repeat as often as needed.
4. Take a hot shower and let the heat of the water relax and unclog the milk duct. If anything, a hot shower will make Mom feel better, even if the clogged duct remains.
5. Warm a large cabbage leaf in the microwave and put it on the affected area of the breast. Continue this until the clogged duct feels better. The leaf can be replaced every couple of hours. This is a tried-and-true treatment that many people recommend, as cabbage leaves conform well to the female breast.
6. Place a handheld massager over the area where the clogged duct is, and run this until the duct loosens.
Tags: clogged duct, clogged duct feels, clogged milk, clogged milk duct, duct feels, milk duct
