Engorgement, Plugged Duct or Mastitis? How To Tell The Difference.

When your breasts feel full, it can be really hard to tell if this is normal fullness from it being feeding time or if something more serious is starting to develop. Engorgement, plugged ducts, and mastitis are all common issues faced by breastfeeding mothers. Below are some simple ways to tell if you have one of these, what causes it and what to do to get back to feeling better quickly.

Engorgement

Most moms experience some engorgement in the first couple of weeks after delivery when her milk supply first increases, but it can occur at any time in the body’s milk-making process.

Symptoms:

  • The breast feels full, heavy and tender

  • The breast appears swollen and shiny

  • The skin may appear tight and there may be a slight redness

Causes:

  • Increased milk production

  • Infrequent breastfeeding or pumping

  • Skipping a feeding or pump session

  • Weaning too quickly

  • Infant suddenly sleeps long periods at night

  • Changes in schedule or returning to work

Treatment:

  • Breastfeed or pump more frequently

  • Use warm compresses before breastfeeding or pumping to encourage milk flow

  • Massage the breast while breastfeeding or pumping to help move the milk

  • Switch sides often during breastfeeding

  • Use a comfortable and supportive nursing bra

  • Avoid using tight clothing that may restrict milk flow

  • Pain relievers such as ibuprofen may be used if necessary, but consult with a doctor before taking any medication

It is important to remember that engorgement is usually temporary and will resolve on its own within a few days. Engorgement can be uncomfortable and painful, but with proper management, it can be easily resolved. Remember to be patient and to seek support from friends, family, or a lactation consultant if needed.

Plugged Duct

Plugged ducts most often occur when milk remains in a breast that is not emptied well through nursing, pumping or hand expression. Similar to a clogged artery in your blood supply, milk fat in your breast milk can collect together and form a small pebble that blocks all or part of the milk flow through your duct system in your breast.

Symptoms:

  • The breast feels hard in only part of the breast

  • The breast may feel tender, bruised feeling or painful in that area

  • A lump may be felt in the breast

Causes:

  • Increased milk production

  • Infrequent breastfeeding or pumping

  • Skipping a feeding or pump session

  • Weaning too quickly

  • Infant suddenly sleeps long periods at night

  • Changes in schedule or returning to work

  • Wrong size pump flange

  • Diet high in saturated fat

Treatment

  • Nurse frequently and on both sides to encourage milk flow and clear the blockage.

  • Apply warm compresses to the affected area to help relieve discomfort and encourage milk flow.

  • Massage the area while nursing or pumping to help break up the blockage.

  • Consider using a manual or electric breast pump to help clear the duct.

  • Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to ensure adequate milk supply.

  • Wearing a well-fitting bra to support the breasts and prevent pressure on the ducts.

  • Avoiding tight clothing that can compress the breasts and restrict milk flow.

Plugged ducts can lead to infection and mastitis, making it important to address them as soon as possible. If you are unable get your breasts soft after a few attempts on your own it can be helpful to contact a lactation consultant to assist you.

Mastitis

Mastitis occurs when bacteria enter the breast tissue, causing an infection and inflammation. Having craked or sore nipples makes a woman more prone to an infection in the breast since these are entry points for bacteria to get into the milk duct system.

Symptoms:

  • The breast is red, warm and painful

  • The skin may be shiny and tight

  • The breast may be swollen

  • The mother may have a flu-like symptoms (fever, fatigue, muscle aches, chills)

Causes:

  • Incorrect or shallow latch

  • Improper breastfeeding technique

  • Not emptying the breast completely with nursing or pumping

  • Stress

  • Fatigue

  • Weakened immune system

Treatment:

  • Continue breastfeeding: Despite the pain and discomfort, it is important to continue breastfeeding your baby. The milk flow will help to clear out the infection, and continuing to breastfeed will reduce the risk of further engorgement and blockages.

  • Apply heat: Placing a warm compress on the affected breast can help to reduce pain and swelling. You can use a hot water bottle or a warm towel.

  • Rest: Make sure you are getting enough rest and taking breaks as needed. This can help to reduce stress and fatigue, which can make the condition worse.

  • Take pain relief medication: Over-the-counter pain relief medications such as ibuprofen can help to reduce pain and swelling. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any medication, as some pain relief medications are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.

  • Use antibiotics: If the mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection, your healthcare provider will likely prescribe antibiotics. It is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished.

  • Consult a lactation consultant: A lactation consultant can help you to ensure that you are breastfeeding effectively and can help to address any latch or technique issues that may be contributing to your mastitis.

If you suspect you have mastitis, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. The following steps can help you manage the condition and minimize its impact on your breastfeeding experience.

Identifying which of these three conditions you are experiencing early can help you treat the concern quickly. Do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need some guidance on how to get your breasts feeling better quickly.

Schedule a lactation consult today!

I am a registered nurse in the State of Florida and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). The content on this blog page is for informational and educational use only. I have taken reasonable steps to ensure that the information shared is accurate, but I cannot guarantee that it is free from errors. The information shared here does not take the place of a medical provider, nor establishes any kind of client relationship with myself as a registered nurse or a lactation consultant. I am not your IBCLC or RN unless you book a consult with me directly and we establish a patient/caregiver relationship.

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