Over half the adult population have breasts, these are the natural organs situated on a woman's upper torso and play a pretty vital roll in the reproductive system. Breasts are not only there to improve the beauty of a woman but also to play a important role in providing sustenance to a newborn, they contain the mammary glands which in turn produce/secrete milk which travels along the milk duct [known as lactating] to the nipple with which we feed the infant.
Symptoms of a blocked milk duct
This is probably the most painful part of breast feeding and can happen to any new mom out there
* small lump in the breast - can be felt when breast touched
* tender breast - generally only one breast is involved when a duct becomes blocked
* Inflamed and sore to the touch
* redness around the small lump
If this condition is left untreated, the new mom will begin to feel body-aches, acute breast pain, general malaise and feverish, this is due to the clogged duct becoming infected - seek immediate treatment from your doctor.
Blocked ducts may be caused by the following
* incomplete feeds - try ensure the baby nurses till the milk supply is all used up
* skipping feeds - we all need to do this sometimes, try not to or at least use a breast pump to remove the unused milk
* inadequate breast pump - ensure the breast pump is functioning properly
* ill fitting bras - try to get the correct nursing bra for your size
* tight clothing - do not wear tops that are too tight, this restricts the natural function of the breast
* stress - try to remain stress free [easier said than done with a newborn]
* illness - colds or infections etc, try remain as healthy as possible
* malnutrition - never let this occur, maintain a well balance diet throughout your breast feeding period [not everyone is lucky enough to be able to do this due to poverty etc]
Home remedies and care of the blocked duct
1) Most important! Nurse the newborn more frequently during this time as this will ensure that the baby empties the milk from each breast, this can help decrease your discomfort and reduce inflammation
2) Gently massage the sore area [as often as time allows] after each feed, start above the sore lump and massage towards the nipple
3) Applying a warm compress to the sore breast before each feed will ensure that the milk will flow more freely [can also prevent clogging of duct] thus draining the breast and aiding in the unclogging of the infected duct
4) Try pointing the chin of the infant towards the sore area - this directs the suction at the problem and can assist with the clearing and healing of the blocked duct
5) Try vary your nursing position at each feed - this can ensure that all milk is drained and prevent any blockage problems
6) Ensure a sufficient intake of vitamin C - this will help in the preventing [and healing] of clogging ducts
7) For pain relief - try drinking a hot herbal infusion of lecithin and echinacea, helps with the pain as well as with unclogging the problem area
When you are nursing it is the most wonderful feeling a human being can have, remember though to keep the nipples clean and healthy. There is nothing worse than cracked nipples when trying to breast feed, when baby is finished, wipe the area with a clean damp cloth and apply Vaseline or nipple cream to the nipples [remember to wipe this off before the next feed]. Cherish these moments you have with your newborn, the saying 'time flies when you having fun' really means something at this time, as before you know it this little bundle of joy will be up and running - all the way to adulthood.
Do remember - if none of the home remedies are working in releasing the blockage - go see your doctor, do not let this little problem become a huge one.
Candice is a prolific author, and full time internet marketer. You can visit her women bowling shoes website, and get some great information on Dexter women bowling shoes and many other great brands.
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