Some lucky mothers breastfeed successfully without ever noticing a problem with plugged ducts or mastitis. But for many of us, plugged ducts and mastitis are a painful problem that strikes again and again. The good news is, with just a little bit of know-how, you can put a stop to this problem without jeopardizing the nursing relationship you and your child share.

The key to breaking the cycle is knowledge. You must learn to prevent plugged ducts, recognize their symptoms early, and treat them effectively, before any other complications arise. More good news is that the longer you breastfeed, the less likely you are to experience plugged ducts and mastitis. Most veteran breastfeeding moms have learned what they have to do to keep trouble at bay. Here is what they know that you may not …

What is a plugged duct?

A plugged duct is a tender knot, usually found in just one breast. It may be the size and shape of a piece of chewed gum, or it may be larger, and it may stay in one spot or move around. The lump tends to become more painful during milk letdown. When milk doesn’t drain well from this duct, it becomes inflamed and creates a blockage, which causes buildup of milk behind it. If the duct is not allowed to drain, the inflammation spreads, and you may notice a hardened area in your breast shaped like a pie wedge, with the tip pointing at your nipple. The affected area may be warm and red, and you might start to run a low-grade fever.

What is mastitis?

Mastitis is an infection of the breast which occurs most often as a complication of a plugged duct not resolved quickly. Bacteria find an entrance into the breast, sometimes through broken skin in the nipple. They multiply in the stagnant, pooled milk, and an infection results. Mastitis presents not only with soreness of the affected breast, but flu-like systemic (whole body) symptoms as well, such as malaise, fatigue, headaches, and nausea. A fever of greater than 101 degrees is typical.