What can I do about recurrent plugged ducts and mastitis?

Some women are prone to plugged ducts because of anatomical differences. Perhaps you have had a breast injury or surgery, or maybe you are unlucky enough to have narrow or tortuous (twisting, turning) milk passageways. You may notice that plugs always occur in the same problem area with an unseen anatomical irregularity. Or you may just be more prone to problems because of a hectic lifestyle. You should try all the prevention and treatment strategies mentioned above, plus a few more.

A lactation consultant can meet with you and discuss your problems. She might be able to pinpoint a risk factor you haven’t thought of yet. Some consultants recommend that you take additional vitamin C or use a supplement called lecithin, a common food additive. Some women find that increasing their water consumption and decreasing dietary saturated fat protects against plugged ducts. In addition, if your milk supply is greatly depleted after your problem resolves, a lactation consultant may recommend herbs to increase milk production.

Milk plugs tend to lead to more plugs, so if you don’t feel complete initial relief after releasing a clog, keep in mind that more than one may be present at one time. Keep up the treatments, and the problem will soon clear up. Be patient. The swelling might take a little time to resolve.

If mastitis keeps stubbornly recurring, the problem may actually be the same unresolved infection that keeps coming back. You should talk to your doctor, and he may suggest switching antibiotics or going on long-term, low-dose antibiotic therapy.

Plugged ducts and mastitis are a definite annoyance and can be very painful. You should take all precautions to prevent them and treat them quickly and aggressively if they do occur. Happily, you can make a difference with the power of knowledge, and even in the worst cases, you can and should continue to share a close breastfeeding relationship with your baby.