Recurrent clogged milk ducts

[SandyGal]

Curious if anyone else has had this problem and successfully beat it. I had the same issue with my dd. I deal with it... they resolve in about a day, but they happen sometimes as frequently as every other day (usually in different area or different breast). With ds, I am a pumping breastfeeder because my ds must have rice cereal added to his milk (reflux, stridor and dysphagia). It is just annoying. I was so looking forward to possibly having an easier breastfeeding experience with ds, now I can't even nurse him and I am still having the painful duct issues as well. Sorry to vent... just frustrated is all.

[Windsurfer's mum]

ouch cabbage leaves worked for me and a loose bra
good luck
clare

[GraceKellysmom]

You may want to check with an l/c on this one. I would wonder if you're emptying the breast when pumping, being consistent as far as what breast or both each time, time pumped, etc. Drinking plenty of water, wearing a correctly fitting bra?

Sending you hugs and much love to make the extra sacrifice to do what you're doing. Are you able to nurse at least once a day so when he gets bigger you have a chance of more nursing/less pumping?

[annamum]

Cabbage leaves are known to dry up your milk supply so should be probably used with some caution.

HUGS to you for sticking with breastfeeding regardless of all your issues.

[SandyGal]

The l/c didn't have much advice. She pulled up some articles. Seems like something they are only just now starting to investigate. I pump very consistently as far as timing and length goes. Unfortunately, I was emptying both breasts in 15 minutes and now it is taking up to 30. That started after the first round of clogged milk ducts. Oh well. Makes me want to start my own research!

Thanks for the support. I know that the breastmilk is good for him and that is why I am trying so hard to keep it up. I pat myself on the back because dd was being supplemented by 6 weeks because my supply diminished. At least I learned enough that time to protect it this time. So far, he hasn't needed to be supplemented (although he probably will eventually).My current goal is to make it to four months and at that time I will try to make it to five... etc. I have tried nursing him again and am having no luck getting him to latch on. My letdown has become much slower and I have always had the odd experience of letting down multiple times... like every five minutes during nursing/pumping. I think that makes for lazy nursers as they doze off when the milk starts to trickle. Plus, my nipples are HUGE from all the pumping and he just wants nothing to do with them.

Happy holidays!

[GraceKellysmom]

Tried a nipple shield?

I'll keep my eye out for any info on recurrent milk ducts. Make sure to stay well hydrated.

Happy holidays to you too!