Will a clogged milk duct eventually dry up?

If you’re experiencing a clogged milk duct, you probably want to know how it can be sorted out. You might have many questions, such as will a clogged milk duct eventually dry up? In this blog, we’ll be answering that question for you.

This blog includes: 

• What is a clogged milk duct?
• When might you experience a clogged milk duct?
• How long does a clogged milk duct last?
• What does a clogged milk duct look like when it comes out?
• Will a clogged milk duct eventually dry up?
• How to ease clogged milk ducts

What is a clogged milk duct?

A breast has multiple milk ducts that allow you to breastfeed your baby if you choose to. When you have a clogged milk duct, they are usually blocked with milk. The good news is that clogged milk ducts are common, so there are ways to get sorted so you can feel comfortable again.

A clogged milk duct will usually occur in only one breast. Your other breast is likely to feel normal. As well as discomfort in the breast, the nipple may also be affected.

Symptoms to look out for

Many women find that they have a small, hard lump inside their breast when the milk ducts are clogged. It’s always best to get checked out by a medical professional if you notice any lumps anywhere.

• Sore breast
• Sharp pain in the nipple
• Reduced milk flow from the affected breast
• Redness around the duct on the affected breast (all over the entire breast can be a sign of an infection called mastitis)
• Fever/flu-like symptoms
• Body aches

A doctor can give you the best advice for dealing with any issues. They may support you with advice or medication for a clogged duct.

When might you experience a clogged milk duct?

You may experience a clogged duct at any point in your breastfeeding journey. There are a few reasons why you may experience clogging. One reason is that the milk has not been fully drained out. This can occur when the baby is not fully latched onto the breast.

Even the type of bra you wear can affect your milk ducts. You should avoid tight bras that can restrict milk flow. Be sure that you wear comfortable bras that fit properly. Avoid all tight clothing after having a baby.

How long does a clogged milk duct last?

There’s no way of knowing how long your clogged duct will last. Some women only experience symptoms for a few days, whereas it can be longer for other women.

You’ll likely know that it’s a clogged duct due to reduced milk coming from the breast. However, if you have a lump for more than two days, you should always get it checked out. A medical professional can conduct testing to ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be treated.

It’s very important to treat a clogged milk duct, or it can turn into mastitis. Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue. If left untreated, you may experience a breast infection. It’s better to seek advice sooner and get the correct treatment.

What does a clogged milk duct look like when it comes out?

Some women may only experience the discomfort associated with clogged ducts, while others may experience a change in breast milk supply.

Some women describe the milk as being thicker and stringy in consistency. You may also have a small white dot of milk around the nipple. Additionally, you may notice redness around the breast due to inflammation.

You should always seek medical advice for clogged ducts. If left untreated, you may experience further issues. It’s best to find solutions sooner and have prescribed medication for your blocked milk duct if necessary.

Will a clogged milk duct eventually dry up?

Even though you may seek medical advice, you may also be able to clear up the clogged duct yourself. Many women find that by continuing to feed the baby from the breast with clogged ducts, it does eventually clear up.

However, you should always seek advice if you are struggling and in pain. You may be offered some medication that will help to clear up the problem quicker. Additionally, you should always get any lumps checked out. This can help to reduce the risk of there being another issue. Read more about when does breastfeeding get easier?

How to ease clogged milk ducts

Clogged milk ducts can be very uncomfortable, so it’s completely understandable that you want to find a solution. Here are some things you could try to ease clogged ducts.

Keep feeding

If you’ve got a blocked duct, you may think it’s best to avoid that breast altogether, but that’s not the case. You might actually be better off continuing to feed from the affected breast. This can help to clear the ducts as milk can flow through more easily.

If your discomfort is so bad that you can’t feed, you should definitely seek advice before trying any at-home methods. A doctor can help you with blocked ducts and advise you on milk production.

You can try different nursing positions if you are able to feed. Some breastfeeding positions may make it easier for you to clear the ducts. You should always try to feed in a position that works for both you and your baby.

Use a heating pad on the affected area

Heat is often known for easing pains, and it may also help you with this. You should always ensure that any warm compresses are not too hot, as this can be dangerous.

For best results, try using a warm compress on the breast for around 15 minutes before nursing. This may help to ease the trapped milk out.

It’s very important to ensure the compress is warm and not hot. Always remove the compress before feeding and check that your skin is not too warm for the baby.

If you use a heat pad, use this over your clothing as per the instructions.

Warm shower

In addition to using warm compresses, you can also use warm showers to help your ducts. Warm showers can be useful due to the steam. The steam may help to ease the milk from the ducts. Ensure that your shower is at a suitable temperature.

It can be useful to give yourself a gentle massage during your shower. Don’t use too much pressure, as you may cause pain in the clogged area.

Use a breast pump

Many women use breast pumps, and they may help you to relieve clogged milk ducts. The pumps use a suction technique to get milk out of the breasts. This may help you to get the trapped milk out of the duct. Be gentle and patient with yourself.

If you’ve tried all of these methods and they aren’t working, you may be better off seeking medical advice. You may be referred to a lactation consultant who will give you advice.

Also, do not try these methods if you have intense breast pain. You may cause the issue to get worse. Please always seek medical advice about any lumps found in the body. A doctor can assess the lump and advise you.

Try to ensure that your baby has a good latch when feeding. Also, use good quality feeding equipment and follow a regular feeding schedule to reduce the risk of clogged ducts. You might be wondering, can you get pregnant while breastfeeding? Read our blog to find out more. 

So, will a milk duct eventually dry up?

There’s a good chance it will, but seek advice if you’re in too much pain. If the blockage lasts for more than a few days, always seek advice. Get treatment sooner if you are in pain.

We hope this blog has been useful and answered the question, will a clogged milk duct eventually dry up? Good luck with your breastfeeding journey!