Understanding Plugged Ducts: Causes, Symptoms & Relief (updated 2025)
Who knew there was so much to learn about breastfeeding?!
Breastfeeding mothers experience a variety of challenges, and it’s so helpful to talk about them openly. Doing so can make all the difference in having a successful breastfeeding experience — and in preventing more serious complications from developing.
What Is a Plugged Duct?
Sometimes, milk flow becomes obstructed in one of the milk ducts. This is known as a plugged duct.
The nipple pore may be blocked by a small milk blister (also called a bleb), or the blockage might occur deeper within the breast tissue.
You might notice:
- A firm or tender lump
- A small area of swelling or engorgement
- Warmth, redness, or localized pain
- Nursing discomfort, especially during letdown
- Temporary drop in milk output from that side
Plugged ducts usually affect one breast at a time and can make nursing on that side uncomfortable — but the good news is that they are temporary and treatable.
Common Causes
Plugged ducts often happen when milk isn’t being effectively drained.
Some common contributing factors include:
- Pressure or pinching from a tight bra, clothing, or seatbelt
- Sleeping in one position for long periods (especially lying on your stomach or side)
- Skipped or shortened feedings
- Engorgement or oversupply
- Poor latch or shallow positioning
- Stress, fatigue, or dehydration
How to Treat a Plugged Duct
The number one rule: keep nursing or pumping from the affected side.
Frequent and thorough milk removal is key to clearing the blockage.
Here’s a step-by-step approach recommended by lactation professionals:
- Warmth before feeding:
- Apply a warm compress, take a hot shower, or soak in a warm bath for 10–15 minutes before nursing or pumping.
- The warmth helps improve circulation and loosen thickened milk.
- Gentle massage:
- Massage the affected area gently from the outer breast toward the nipple using your fingertips or a soft silicone massager.
- Avoid aggressive deep tissue massage — research shows it can cause tissue injury and inflammation.
- Effective milk removal:
- Start feeding on the affected breast first to promote a strong letdown.
- Vary nursing positions (e.g., football hold, cradle, side-lying) so different areas of the breast drain well.
- Make sure your baby’s latch is deep and comfortable.
- After feeding:
- If your breast still feels full, express milk by hand or pump gently until comfortable.
- Apply a cold compress for 10–15 minutes afterward to reduce swelling and pain.
- Hydration & rest:
- Drink plenty of fluids, eat nourishing meals, and rest as much as possible. Your body heals best when supported.
Pain & Inflammation Relief
- Cold compresses between feeds can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Ibuprofen (an anti-inflammatory) is considered compatible with breastfeeding and is a preferred option for nursing parents because transfer into milk is very low. Follow the product label unless your clinician advises otherwise, and avoid if you have a known NSAID allergy or can’t take NSAIDs.
Why ibuprofen?
Lactation experts, including the NIH’s LactMed database and the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, note that ibuprofen (and acetaminophen) are first-line pain relief options during breastfeeding because of their low milk levels and safety profile.
When to Get Help
If symptoms don’t improve within 24–48 hours — or if you develop a fever (over 101.3°F), chills, or flu-like symptoms— contact your healthcare provider. These can be signs of mastitis, an infection that sometimes develops after a blocked duct.
Our team of Certified Lactation Counselors is always here to help. If you’re unsure whether it’s a plugged duct, bleb, or something else entirely, reach out for support. Early attention can make all the difference.
Personal Experience
From personal experience, I’ve had many plugged ducts throughout my five years of breastfeeding. With warmth, rest, massage, and frequent nursing, I was able to clear them each time.
Remember: small adjustments — like loosening or removing your bra, switching up positions, and avoiding long gaps between feedings — can help prevent future blockages.
Summary
Do:
✅ Keep nursing or pumping
✅ Use warmth and gentle massage
✅ Stay hydrated and rest
✅ Apply cold compresses after feeding
✅ Take ibuprofen (if safe for you) to reduce pain and inflammation
✅ Seek help if symptoms persist or worsen
Don’t:
🚫 Stop breastfeeding suddenly
🚫 Use firm or painful massage
🚫 Ignore persistent pain, redness, or fever
With the right care, plugged ducts usually resolve within a few days — and your breastfeeding journey can continue smoothly and comfortably.
Evidence-Based Resources
If you’d like to read more about plugged ducts and safe breastfeeding practices, these resources are excellent starting points:
