milk duct

What are milk ducts?

Milk ducts are small tubes in the breast that carry milk from the milk-producing cells, called alveoli, to the nipple. When your baby latches on and starts sucking, milk flows through these ducts to your baby.

They help milk efficiently transfer from your breast to your baby.

What to watch out for

New mamas should be aware of potential issues related to ducts and breastfeeding, such as blocked ducts, mastitis, engorgement, and low milk supply.

Here are some tips for resolving these issues and guidance on when to seek professional help:

Blocked ducts

Blocked ducts occur when milk becomes trapped in the ducts, causing discomfort, swelling, and redness in the affected area. To resolve a blocked duct, try gentle breast massages starting from the nipple and working towards the painful area, and avoid deep massage to prevent inflammation. Implement breast gymnastics to reduce inflammation and improve milk flow.

Vary breastfeeding positions, aiming your baby’s chin toward the painful area to help clear the blockage. Nurse or pump frequently, but avoid excessive pumping or hand expressing to prevent hyperlactation.

For pain, consult your doctor about using Tylenol or Ibuprofen, and use ice packs to reduce pain and swelling. Avoid heat (dry or moist) as it can worsen symptoms.

Blocked ducts usually resolve within a day or two. If the issue persists or worsens, reach out to a healthcare professional or lactation consultant. Learn more about managing and preventing plugged ducts.

Mastitis

Mastitis is an infection that occurs when a blocked duct is not resolved, leading to inflammation and flu-like symptoms such as fever and chills. If you suspect mastitis, contact your healthcare provider for treatment.

You should continue breastfeeding or pumping while you have mastitis to help clear the infection. Read more about mastitis.

Engorgement

Engorgement happens when your breasts become overly full, causing them to feel hard, swollen, and painful. This can put pressure on the ducts, making it harder for milk to flow.

To prevent or relieve engorgement, nurse your baby frequently and make sure they have a proper latch.

Engorgement usually lasts a few days to a week. If it persists beyond a week or causes difficulty in latching, consult with a healthcare professional or lactation consultant. Learn more about managing engorgement.

Low milk supply

Low milk supply can occur if your baby is not effectively removing milk from your breast. Encourage milk production by breastfeeding frequently and ensuring a proper latch.

If you're still concerned after a week or two or notice signs of dehydration in your baby, reach out to a healthcare professional or lactation consultant. Read more about increasing your milk supply.

Physical limitations or health circumstances

Certain physical limitations and health circumstances can potentially complicate the normal operation of the ducts during breastfeeding:

Insufficient glandular tissue (IGT)

Insufficient glandular tissue means the breast tissue didn’t fully develop, leading to fewer milk ducts and milk-producing alveoli. This can result in a low milk supply, making it challenging to exclusively breastfeed. A lactation consultant can offer strategies to maximize milk production.

Breast surgery

Breast surgeries, such as reductions or augmentations, can affect the ducts and milk flow. The impact depends on the type of surgery and techniques used. Consulting with a lactation specialist before delivery can help you prepare for breastfeeding.

Hormonal imbalances

Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can affect hormone levels and milk production. Managing these conditions with the help of a healthcare provider can support successful breastfeeding.

Inverted or flat nipples

Inverted or flat nipples can make it harder for your baby to latch properly, affecting milk transfer through the ducts. Read “Breastfeeding with Flat or Inverted Nipples: 10 Tricks to Make It Work” to lean what you can do.

Nipple shields can temporarily improve latch. Learn more about nipple shields.

Read more about Breastfeeding with Inverted Nipples.

Tongue tie or lip tie

Ties in your baby can affect their ability to latch and remove milk efficiently, leading to potential duct issues. A healthcare professional can assess and treat them.

Breast infections

Infections like mastitis can impact the ducts and disrupt normal milk flow. Get quick treatment for any infection to maintain your milk supply. Read more about mastitis.

Other terms

Understanding additional terms related to the milk production and breastfeeding process can help new mamas better grasp the role of ducts in nourishing their babies:

1. Alveoli: Tiny sacs in the breast where milk is produced.
2. Milk let-down: The process by which your body releases milk from the alveoli into the ducts, allowing your baby to access it.
3. Lactogenesis: The initiation and maintenance of milk production in the breast.
4. Colostrum: The first milk produced during pregnancy and shortly after giving birth, rich in nutrients and antibodies.
5. Engorgement: When breasts become overly full, making them feel hard, swollen, and painful.
6. Blocked ducts: When milk becomes trapped in the ducts, leading to discomfort and swelling.
7. Mastitis: An infection that occurs when a blocked duct is not resolved, causing inflammation and flu-like symptoms.