Breast milk duct obstruction, according to Hong Ngoc General Hospital, occurs when the milk duct narrows or becomes blocked, making it difficult for milk to flow easily. Prolonged obstruction will lead to milk stasis and accumulation. There are several causes for this condition, including infrequent milk expression, improper breastfeeding techniques, and pressure on the breasts due to tight clothing.
The symptoms of milk duct obstruction can vary from mother to mother, but most commonly include breast engorgement, warmth, reduced or absent milk flow, and breast pain.
1. Encourage Proper Breastfeeding Habits
Encourage proper breastfeeding habits
Firstly, mothers should breastfeed their babies regularly, every 2-3 hours, to prevent breast engorgement and potential milk duct obstruction. Additionally, varying the baby’s feeding position can help improve milk flow, as different positions apply different suction forces on the milk ducts.
2. Use a Comb to Unblock Milk Ducts
Use a comb to unblock milk ducts
An age-old folk remedy for milk duct obstruction is to use a comb. Mothers can gently comb their breasts with a thick-toothed comb, starting from the inside and working outwards, to help clear the blockage.
3. Apply Warm Towels
Apply warm towels
Warm towels can help soften the breasts, relax the milk glands, and dissolve milk clots. To do this, follow these steps:
4. Use a Breast Pump
Use a breast pump
Breast pumps are a familiar tool for many mothers, not only for milk expression but also for clearing milk duct obstructions. Using a breast pump can help empty the breasts, improving milk flow and clearing blockages.
5. Apply Herbal Plasters
Apply herbal plasters
Herbal plasters can help dissolve milk clots and improve milk flow. When purchasing herbal plasters, mothers should opt for reputable pharmacies to ensure safety and quality.
6. Breast Massage
Breast massage
Massaging the breasts is a simple yet effective way to clear milk duct obstructions. It is important to note that the massage does not need to be vigorous; gentle, circular motions around the breasts are sufficient.
7. Traditional Folk Remedies
Onion
Use onion to clear milk duct obstruction
Onions are an effective folk remedy for milk duct obstruction and can be used as follows:
Repeat this process twice a day, along with breast massage, for about four days to clear the milk duct obstruction.
Jackfruit Leaves
Use jackfruit leaves to clear milk duct obstruction
Jackfruit leaves are another effective folk remedy. Here’s how to use them:
Continue this process until milk flow is restored, then breastfeed immediately to maintain milk flow.
Cabbage Leaves
Use cabbage leaves to clear milk duct obstruction
Cabbage leaves are a wonderful folk remedy for milk duct obstruction. Here’s how to use them:
Combine this with breast massage and continue the process until the milk duct obstruction is cleared. Once milk flow is restored, breastfeed immediately to maintain milk flow.
Papaya
Use papaya to clear milk duct obstruction
Papaya is a simple and effective remedy for milk duct obstruction. Mothers can prepare papaya leaves, warm them slightly, and apply them to the breasts. Regular application of this remedy can help clear milk duct obstructions.
Water Spinach and Polygonum Multiflorum Leaves
Use water spinach and polygonum multiflorum leaves to clear milk duct obstruction
Water spinach and polygonum multiflorum leaves are also effective in clearing milk duct obstructions. Prepare a handful of each type of leaf, wash them, and chop them finely. Apply the mixture to the breasts and secure it with a bandage. Continue this process until milk flow is restored, then breastfeed to maintain milk flow.
Basil Leaves
Use basil leaves to clear milk duct obstruction
Basil leaves are another effective remedy for milk duct obstruction. Prepare a handful of basil leaves, wash them, and chop them finely. Apply the basil paste to the breasts and secure it with a bandage. Continue this process for about a week for best results.
Burdock and Gourd Leaves
Use burdock and gourd leaves to clear milk duct obstruction
Burdock and gourd leaves are a traditional folk remedy for milk duct obstruction that has been passed down through generations. Prepare a handful of burdock leaves and gourd leaves, chop them finely, and mix them with a small amount of alcohol. Apply the mixture to the breasts and secure it with a bandage. For best results, use this remedy regularly.
Luffa
Use luffa to clear milk duct obstruction
According to Eastern medicine, luffa has a neutral nature and a sweet taste. It is believed to help clear milk ducts. To use this remedy, remove the seeds from the luffa and dry it. Then, boil the luffa and drink the water. For best results, use this remedy continuously for 2-3 days.
8. Treat with Sticky Rice
Treat milk duct obstruction with sticky rice
Treating milk duct obstruction with sticky rice is a popular method among mothers. Prepare some hot sticky rice and place it in a cloth. Apply the warm rice pack to the breasts, working from the outside towards the inside. For best results, repeat this process twice a day.
9. Treat with Yeast
Treat milk duct obstruction with yeast
Yeast is an effective remedy for milk duct obstruction. Purchase some yeast, add white alcohol, and apply the mixture to the breasts. Cover with a cloth and leave it on. For best results, use this remedy consistently for about two months to improve milk flow and volume.
10. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent milk duct obstruction
After giving birth, a mother’s body can become tired and her health may decline. It is important to rest and recover. Mothers should maintain a healthy diet, take care of their health, and stay in a positive state of mind.
It is normal for mothers to feel anxious, stressed, or worried if they experience milk duct obstruction. In such cases, it is important to stay calm and seek appropriate treatment. If the milk duct obstruction persists for more than a day or two, or if symptoms worsen, it is advisable to consult a doctor for further assistance.
This article provides insights into treating milk duct obstruction. We hope that by sharing these methods, mothers will be equipped with more options to address this issue. Remember, if you experience milk duct obstruction, don’t panic; instead, find a suitable solution to address it effectively.
Source: Hong Ngoc General Hospital
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