Blocked duct?

[Milk_Monkey]

Could someone explain to me what a blocked duct actually feels like?

I found a lump on my breast about a week ago. Its is just under the top ot the areloa, and is a sort of oval/rectangle shape about 1cm by 1.5cm.

I assumed it was a blocked duct, but since in hasnt really changed or gone in a week, im thinking i should be going to the doctor.

[Nickster]

It sounds like a blocked duct to me - I've had them quite a few times - but I wouldn't want to be the authority in this - it's probably best you get the doctor to check it out for you.

A tip I was given for clearing blocked ducts is to position your baby (and you may have to lie down, many interesting positions can occur this way!) so that his/her chin is closest to the duct when feeding, apparently that will help to clear it. You can also massage the duct as he/she feeds - I found that worked for me, and it was usually gone in 24 hours or so.

[bec79]

Or jump in a warm shower. Aim the water at your boob, and massage it out.:thumbsup:

[Pixie]

In the early weeks I was getting blocked ducts and it hurts like hell the pain is really bad hot water can make it worse as it makes your breasts produce more milk, a bag of frozen peas or a cold face washer will help to un block it. I have no idea if that is what you have though as you don't talk about pain!

Perhaps call an ABA counseller they are really helpful!

[wattle]

I had two blocked ducts a couple of weeks ago (one each side :( ) and they were painful. They felt and looked like a little pimple.

To clear them I dipped them in hot water (as hot as I could stand) for about 10 mins before each feed. It's a bit awkward, but it didn't take long for them to clear. A really hot shower is a good option too. If bub is positioned properly when feeding after a hot soak, they should go pretty quickly.