Engorgement, Plugged Ducts and Mastitis

It is normal for breasts to feel full when your milk ‘comes in’ the first 2-6 days after baby is born. Breasts that feel ‘overfull’ in these early days will often become softer and less tender with early, effective, and unrestricted breastfeeding. The keys to effective breastfeeding are proper latch & positioning. When your baby breastfeeds regularly and effectively, your body will quickly learn how much milk your breasts need to produce to meet your baby’s needs.

True engorgement, however, is not normal, and may need special management to prevent further problems from developing. Engorgement that does not resolve spontaneously within 24-48 hours can lead to plugged milk ducts (see below).

Get help from a healthcare professional right away if you:

• Are not able to soften your breasts
• Have a red and / or painful area on your breast
• Have a fever or are feeling sick

Breastfeeding support is available and can help you to learn more about breastfeeding.

Plugged Ducts or Mastitis

Mothers who have pain or discomfort in their breasts may be experiencing Plugged Ducts or Mastitis. Blockages can happen when the milk ducts in your breast become plugged. Mastitis is an inflammation and infection of the breast which can result from plugged ducts if left untreated.

Plugged ducts will often resolve with continued breastfeeding, however mastitis can still occur.

Symptoms of Mastitis may include:

• Red, hot, swollen lump in one breast
• Fever and flu - like symptoms
• Intense pain in the breast
• Red streaks on your breast

(Taken From: Breastfeeding Protocols for Healthcare Providers, Toronto Public Health)

Follow up with your healthcare provider right away if you suspect mastitis. Antibiotic treatment is almost always needed.  It is important that you continue to breastfeed when you have a plugged duct or mastitis as this will help to resolve the problem.  There is no risk to your breastfeeding baby when you have mastitis.

For more information, call (705) 721-7520 or click Your Health Connection to speak to a public health nurse.