Clogged Ducts & Mastitis: What to Watch For—and How to Feel Better, Fast
By Anna Rademaker, IBCLC & LMT | Sacred Mama Denver
Breastfeeding is powerful, beautiful, and... sometimes uncomfortable.
If you’ve ever felt a tender lump in your breast or a sudden wave of flu-like symptoms while nursing, you’re not alone. These can be signs of a clogged duct or mastitis, both of which are common—but treatable—challenges during lactation.
As an IBCLC and massage therapist, I’ve helped many parents recognize the signs early, prevent complications, and feel better quickly. Let’s break it down together.
What Is a Clogged Duct?
A clogged duct occurs when milk gets backed up in part of the breast, usually due to poor drainage. This can happen from:
Infrequent or skipped feedings
Pressure on the breast (tight bra, baby carrier, or sleeping position)
Inefficient latch or pumping
Stress or fatigue (hello, postpartum life)
You might feel a small lump, soreness, or localized fullness. The skin may look slightly red, but you typically won’t have a fever at this point.
Signs It’s Turning Into Mastitis
Mastitis happens when a clogged duct becomes inflamed or infected. It often comes on fast and can make you feel pretty awful. Watch for:
A hard, hot, or painful area on the breast
Redness or streaking
Fever, chills, and body aches
Fatigue and flu-like symptoms
If you think you have mastitis, don’t wait—contact your care provider. Antibiotics or other medical treatment may be needed, and early action can prevent complications.
How to Prevent Clogged Ducts
Feed or pump often—avoid long stretches without milk removal
Use varied nursing positions to help drain all areas of the breast
Loosen tight clothing or bras
Stay hydrated and nourished
Rest—yes, it’s hard, but your body needs it
And here’s a powerful tool many parents don’t know about:
How Lymphatic Drainage Massage Helps
Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle, non-invasive technique that supports your body’s natural fluid movement. It’s not deep tissue, and it’s not aggressive—it’s soothing, light, and incredibly effective for:
Reducing swelling and inflammation around clogged ducts
Easing fluid congestion in the chest wall, armpits, and breast tissue
Stimulating circulation and lymph flow to help your body clear blockages
Soothing the nervous system, which supports hormone balance and milk letdown
Many clients tell me they leave feeling relieved, calmer, and better able to feed or pump comfortably again.
You Don’t Have to Struggle Alone
If you’re dealing with recurrent clogs, early mastitis, or just want support in your lactation journey, you don’t have to tough it out. I offer compassionate, hands-on care for both your body and your feeding goals.
💛 Book a therapeutic lymphatic session at sacredmamadenver.com
💬 Or reach out with your questions—I’m here for you as both an IBCLC and bodyworker, and I understand this journey from both sides.