Blocked Duct
A blocked duct is caused by blockage of milk in the breast duct, causing poor or insufficient milk production. When milk accumulates in the blocked area, the increased pressure of the milk ducts causes local discomfort or a lump in the breast.
Why does blocked duct happen?
There is no clear answer; however, insufficient milk suction is the most likely cause. Poor drainage may be due to
- baby not latching well to the breasts
- wearing clothing which is too tight
- the breastfeeding interval too long
- scars from previous surgery
All this can predispose to mastitis.
Postpartum Acute Mastitis
Acute mastitis is common in women who are first time mother, and it usually occurs 3-4 weeks after giving birth.
Risk factors
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1.Blocked ducts
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2.Untreated engorgement
3. Cracked nipples
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4.Missed feedings
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5.Excessive fatigue
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6.Decreased resistance to infection
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When is the best time
to stop breastfeeding?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants should be breastfed in the first 6 months of life.
Solid food can be introduced at about 6 months. After that, breastfeeding can be continued for 1 year, or as long as the mother and baby are willing.
How to stop breastfeeding？
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Nursing
Promote natural weaning
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Bottle-feeding
Method as below
STEP 1
Breast palpation. Firstly, check is there any hard lump. The lump ( blocked duct) will need to be emptied as they prevent the flow of breast milk which can lead to mastitis.
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STEP 2
Prolong the interval between each pumping episode
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STEP 3
Apply cold compression after breast pumping to reduce the rate of lactation
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STEP 4
Adjusting your diet
- Try consume cooling food
- Lessen food that promotes lactation
- Stay hydrated
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If you are a mother with an oversupply of breast milk or have a history of plugged ducts and inflammation, do consider seeking doctors’ consultation to plan your personal weaning journey!
Strategies to soothe an infant during weaning include :
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Hold the baby for skin contact
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Provides soothing pacifiers
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Distract babies who want to breastfeed by playing, singing, walking
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Rock the baby gently
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If your baby is teething, give the baby a cooled teething ring
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Establish a new bedtime habit to help babies fall asleep
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It can also be helpful for another parent or caregiver to comfort the baby. Babies during weaning may actively trying to eat. Getting others to comfort or feed a baby can significantly reduce the stress on the mother and baby.
Low breast milk production
Some new mothers may have difficulty producing enough breast milk for medical reasons, including:
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Excessive blood loss during delivery (over 500ml / 17.6floz) or residual placental fragments will delay milk production (usually about three days after delivery)
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Medical condition of polycystic ovarian syndrome, diabetes, thyroid or other hormonal disorders.
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Mammary dysplasia is a rare medical condition in which there is not enough breast-producing tissue in the breast.
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Had undergone breast surgery or breast trauma in the past
If you have any of these conditions, consult a lactation consultant or doctor.
