Breastfeeding Support: Preventing and Treating Blocked Ducts and Mastitis

Breastfeeding can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with challenges. Some issues—like broken nipples, blocked ducts, and mastitis—can cause unnecessary stress while navigating life with a new baby.

You may have heard the saying, “It takes a village to raise a baby.” The same is true for breastfeeding. In the past, mothers often had support from elders who knew exactly how to prevent problems. Today, that guidance isn’t always easy to access, so if you’re struggling with breastfeeding, know that you are not alone.

There is a lot of advice out there—sometimes conflicting—offered by well-meaning friends, family, and even professionals. At our clinic, we provide treatment for blocked ducts, mastitis, and broken nipples using therapeutic ultrasound and laser therapy to facilitate healing, while offering support, reassurance, and up to date evidence based advice to prevent further complications.

We also work very closely with many of Londons best lactation consultants to ensure the best care for you and your baby.

When to Seek Help

If your breast feels painful or engorged, or you notice lumps or bumps, it’s important to reach out early. Early intervention can prevent a simple blocked duct from developing into full-blown mastitis.

Even if your body is already aching and the breast is very tender, we can help. Ultrasound therapy, for example, works incredibly well to relieve symptoms.

What is a Blocked Duct?

A blocked duct refers to a milk duct in the breast that has become clogged, preventing milk from flowing properly.

Symptoms may include:

• A small, painful lump in the breast (size can vary; there may be multiple lumps)

• Localized swelling or tenderness

• Milk may still flow, but sometimes less efficiently

• Mild redness over the affected area

• Skin that feels warm to the touch

⚠️ If the blocked duct isn’t relieved, it can lead to mastitis, an infection that may cause fever, chills, and worsening pain.

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Mastitis

Mastitis can develop if a blocked milk duct isn’t cleared or if bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) enter the breast tissue, often through a cracked nipple.

Symptoms of mastitis:

• Painful, red, warm, and swollen area on the breast

• Fever and chills

• Fatigue or feeling generally unwell

• Milk may appear thick or have an unusual color, though usually milk is still present

When to seek medical help:

• Fever ≥ 101°F (38.3°C) or chills

• Symptoms worsening or not improving within 24–48 hours

• Severe pain, large red area, or abscess formation

???? Tip: Mastitis can develop suddenly—sometimes overnight. Early recognition and continued emptying of the breasts are key to preventing complications.

Breast abscess: Is a a more serious complication of mastitis  where a pocket of pus forms in the breast tissue and usually requires drainage and antibiotics.

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How Blocked Ducts and Mastitis Happen

The most common cause of blocked ducts is pressure on the breast, though other factors contribute:

1. Pressure on the breasts – seatbelts, bumping into things, sleeping on your breast, or holding it too firmly while trying to latch.

2. Feeding frequency and length – not feeding on demand, not emptying the breast fully, or rushing feeds.

3. Oversupply of milk – too much milk can create pressure and discomfort.

4. Incorrect attempts to relieve pain – firm massage or excessive heat may worsen the problem.

5. Incorrect positioning – poor latch due to positioning.

6. Baby’s ability to latch – tongue tie or other biomechanical restrictions.

7. Combination feeding – alternating breast and bottle may interfere with milk removal.

8. Pumping issues – incorrect flange size, over-pumping, or pump pressure.

9. Factors affecting lymphatic drainage – carrying heavy bags, pushing prams, tight clothing/bras.

10. Stress and fatigue – can sometimes contribute.

???? During winter and busy seasons, blocked ducts and mastitis are especially common—sometimes nicknamed “Christmastitis” due to rushed or missed feeds!

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Therapeutic Ultrasound: How It Helps

Therapeutic ultrasound is a medical treatment that uses high-frequency sound waves to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve tissue function. Unlike diagnostic ultrasound (for imaging), therapeutic ultrasound treats tissues.

How it works:

• A handheld device (transducer) emits sound waves (1–3 MHz) that penetrate skin and tissue, producing mechanical vibrations.

• Thermal effects: Vibrating molecules produce heat, which increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, reduces stiffness, and enhances tissue extensibility.

• Non-thermal effects:

  • Cavitation: Tiny gas bubbles stimulate cell activity

  • Acoustic streaming: Fluid movement promotes nutrient exchange and waste removal

Therapeutic uses:

• Pain relief for muscles, tendons, and joints

• Promote tissue healing (e.g., tendonitis, ligament sprains, scars)

• Reduce inflammation and swelling

• Increase flexibility in tight tissues

Application:

• Gel is applied to ensure good contact

• The transducer is moved in slow, circular motions over the target area

• Duration: typically 5–10 minutes per area depending on what is treated.

⚠️ Ultrasound is not suitable for everyone (e.g., areas with cancer, infection, poorly healing fractures, eyes, heart, or pregnant uterus). Your practitioner will determine if it’s appropriate for you.

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At-Home Tips to Prevent Blockages and Mastitis

• Empty the breasts regularly – feed on demand and don’t rush feeds allowing baby to drain the breast well

• Avoid pressure – don’t sleep on your breasts or wear overly tight clothing

• Ensure a good latch – proper positioning helps milk flow and prevents lumps

• Alternate feeding positions – target different areas of the breast

• Rest and manage stress – fatigue can contribute to blocked ducts

• Cold compress not heat!