15 Ways to Clear a Clogged Milk Duct
Women who have successfully cleared their clogged milk ducts share how they did it…
A clogged milk ducts (also sometimes called a blocked duct or plugged duct) is a common issue that can occur during breastfeeding.
A clogged duct is basically a milk backup. Flow slows down, pressure builds, and suddenly your breast is very aware that something isn’t moving the way it should.
It can be uncomfortable (okay, sometimes downright painful), and to make things more frustrating, clogs don’t always clear quickly. When you’re already juggling feedings, sleep deprivation, and real life, dealing with a stubborn clog can feel super stressful.
The good news is that this is a common breastfeeding experience and there are ways to help things move along again.
That’s why seasoned breastfeeding moms and educators have gathered their best, tried-and-true tips to help clear the clog, ease discomfort, and support smooth milk flow.
(this post may contain affiliate links)
What Causes Clogged Ducts?
Clogged ducts are one of those frustrating breastfeeding hiccups that can catch you off guard… even when you feel like you’re doing everything right.
They often happen when inflammation or swelling narrows the milk ducts, making it harder for milk to flow smoothly. Certain medications, including antibiotics, can also contribute for some people.
Consistent milk removal plays a big role, too. When feedings or pumping sessions are delayed or skipped, milk can linger in the breast, increasing the chance of a blockage forming.
Everyday pressure matters more than most people realize. A bra that’s too tight, a carrier strap pressing in the same spot, or sleeping in a position that compresses breast tissue can all interfere with healthy milk flow.
And sometimes clogged ducts show up without a clear reason at all. Breastfeeding is dynamic, and your body is constantly adjusting.
The good news is this: clogged ducts are common, manageable, and fixable. With a few simple, supportive strategies, you can get things flowing again… and feel confident doing it.
What are the symptoms of a clogged duct? How do I know if I have one?
You might feel a small, hard, and painful lump that's causing chaos in your breast.
The area around it might be feeling hot and bothered (red, warm to the touch, and sore)
More tender breast before pumping or feeding, with some relief afterwards.
Usually, only one breast is affected.
Milk flow might slow down
15 Ways To Clear A Clogged Duct
Advice from breastfeeding veterans…
aka boob whisperers
“Frequent nursing, pumping and lots of massaging. It took at least 24 hours for it to resolve. Watch for signs of mastitis.”
-Jackie F.
“Hot shower. Massage in the hot shower. Then pump or feed immediately after while still massaging.”
-Lea Y.
“Start taking Lecithin ASAP! It’s a natural supplement that will lubricate your milk ducts and resolve and help prevent future clogs.”
-Katie C.
THIS is our favorite brand of lecithin. It’s non GMO, super affordable, and works like a charm.
“Vibration always helped my stubborn clogs.”
-Destiny W.
“I rub the clog with my palm while pumping. If I don’t pull it out after 15 to 20 minutes I stop for about an hour, put heat pad on it, and then try again.”
-Jessica W.
“You can feed your baby on their back so you’re facing the floor or you can pump in this same way to allow gravity to help as well. Ibuprofen always helped tremendously with the pain. And nurse, nurse, nurse!
-Alison J.
“Massage that area firmly while baby nurses on that side.”
-Bridget C.
Many moms swear by this magical little tool. It provides gentle vibration and warmth and helps encourage milk flow and make stubborn clogs easier to release.
“Put warm washcloths on your breast prior to breastfeeding, or take warm shower prior to breastfeeding, then while breastfeeding your baby massage the breast/lump towards nipple.”
-Emma O.
“Use a wide tooth comb and ‘comb out’ the clog.”
-Katie W.
“Electric toothbrush on the clog and then pump or nurse! Always worked like a charm for me!”
-Shelby C.
“Take a diaper and fill it with hot water and use it as a compress!”
-Noelle M.
“A heating pad and just keep baby feeding off the clogged breast. It's gonna hurt but it will unclog eventually. I practically slept on my heating pads when I got clogs. The heat helps a lot.”
-Destiny C.
“As weird as it sounds, I’ve heard a lot of women say that they had their partner suck it out. A much stronger suction power than baby or pump.”
-Chelsea M.
“Drink lots of water, avoid tight bras, underwire, heavy lifting, and laying on that side until it clears.”
-Tiffany H.
“The only thing that’s worked for me every time, is dangle feeding while massaging really fast.”
-Dreya C.
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Easy-bake cookies with oats, flax, brewer’s yeast (+ chocolate!) to help support your milk supply and satisfy cravings. Warm, fast, and ridiculously good.
Hopefully now when you encounter a painful plugged duct - you’ll know EXACTLY what to do!
Related post: How to Prevent Clogged Milk Ducts
