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bfing/boob issues

neesernicoleneesernicole
in Parenting

Okay, so my left boob has always given me fits. I don't think it's mastitis but a clogged duct(s) and I've been given meds twice now. Take the meds, it goes away and a few wks it starts to hurt again (like it's bruised and really tender ... there's usually a "hard spot" too). I've been able to pick up on the signs and try not to let it get to the point of total pain but I'm not sure what's making it hurt in the first place. It seems that when I'm doing a lot of physical stuff, that's when it acts up - is this a coincidence?

Regardless - any tips to make it feel better and keep it "unclogged"? I nurse and pump very regularly and Miss Right Boobie never has any problems. Thanks!


"image"
Ethan {1.11.10} & Malia {12.28.06}
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Re: bfing/boob issues

  • KoriBrettKoriBrett
    Massage the lumpy part of Lefty, hot compresses/hot showers.  All that combined usually unclogs the duct.  But the massaging part usually results in, well.. do it into the sink during a shower ;-)
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  • juniper19juniper19 member

    There are two reasons for chronic clogs.  If it is in different spots each time then you probably have ducts that are curvy and the milk gets stuck.  If it is in the same spot each time, then you may have a curvy duct (or not) and once there was a first clog the duct remains inflamed even after it clears, leaving you susceptible to another clog.

    Physical stuff may be an indirect cause if you are wearing a tight fitting bra (like a sports bra).  I would also use heat on the breast regularly (even if there's not pain), especially while pumping or nursing if possible, just keep things flowing.

    I had chronic clogs in both breasts and it was a big pain (literally and figuratively) and sadly also hurt my milk supply, so keep on eye on that.

    There is a supplement called Lecithin which some people say can help prevent clogs.  My LC was dubious, but you can do a little research and see if you think it is worth trying. 

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  • Rebekah1021Rebekah1021
    I had this happen when I wore an underwire bra. Could this be an issue for you? I learned that I couldn't wear underwire while nursing because I would get clogged ducts all the time.
    Audrey Elizabeth 11-11-06 image
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  • neesernicoleneesernicole

    imageRebekah1021:
    I had this happen when I wore an underwire bra. Could this be an issue for you? I learned that I couldn't wear underwire while nursing because I would get clogged ducts all the time.

    oh yes, the underwire nursing bras have been out the door for a long time. sucks to be saggy but i do it. :)


    "image"
    Ethan {1.11.10} & Malia {12.28.06}
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  • MamiHMamiH

    I never had clogged ducts before and for some reason I have had 2 this time around (and I nursed my other 2 kids).

    I've been pumping on that side for longer sessions, feeding a ton, hot showers/hot packs and massaging.  I had one a few weeks ago and now it's bothering me again today.  My OB felt it still last week at my appt and said sometimes the proteins just build up and get clogged.

    Mom to DD 6.5 years, DD 5 years, DS 18 months
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  • AggieCoupleAggieCouple member
    I always had a sore spot on one or the other.  Massaging toward the nipple during nursing/pumping seemed to help.
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  • neesernicoleneesernicole
    This is all so helpful! Thank you!!

    "image"
    Ethan {1.11.10} & Malia {12.28.06}
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