Breastfeeding is natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Many parents face common breastfeeding conditions that can cause discomfort or worry, especially in the early days. The good news? Most of these issues are treatable, and support is always available.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most common breastfeeding problems - blocked ducts, mastitis, and blebs with expert guidance on how to spot the signs, relieve symptoms, and know when to seek help.
1. Blocked (or Plugged) Milk Ducts
What is it?
A blocked duct happens when milk doesn’t drain properly and causes a build-up in one area of the breast. It may feel like a small, painful lump and usually comes on gradually.
Symptoms:
- Tender, localized lump in the breast
- Swelling or redness in one spot
- Pain or burning when feeding
What helps:
- Feed your baby as normal, starting on the affected side
- Make sure baby has a deep latch to effectively drain the breast. Trying your baby in a different position might also help achieve a deeper latch
- Use warm compresses before feeding
- Apply cold or ice packs to the affected area post feed
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication can help reduce inflammation
- Gently hand express after a feed if your breast still feels very full – avoid pumping which may cause further issues
2. Mastitis
What is it?
Mastitis is inflammation of the breast, often due to a blocked duct or infection. It can come on suddenly and may cause flu-like symptoms. It usually only affects one breast.
Symptoms:
- Painful, red, swollen area on the breast
- Fever, chills, or flu-like aches
- Breast feels hot, tight, or shiny
- Feeling unwell or exhausted
What helps:
- Keep feeding or expressing regularly (don’t stop!)
- Use warm compresses before and cold compresses after feeds
- Consider using lymphatic drainage, which is a very gentle, light yet firm touch, with fingertips flat to the skin in the armpit area and upper chest. This helps to move the fluid away from the ducts
- Rest, stay hydrated, and take paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed
- If symptoms last over 24 hours or worsen, see your GP—antibiotics may be needed
3. Nipple Blisters (Milk Blebs)
What is it?
A milk bleb or blister is a tiny white spot on the nipple caused by blocked nipple pores. It may feel like sharp, pinching pain during feeding.
Symptoms:
- Small white dot or blister on the nipple
- Localized soreness
- Pain that persists after a feed
What helps:
- Soak your nipple with a warm saline compress pre feed until it resolves
- Breastfeeding or pumping as normal
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation
- Speak to your midwife if it doesn’t resolve
- Do not attempt to pierce or pop the bleb yourself, as this can increase the risk of infection.
4. Engorgement
Breast engorgement is when your breasts become overly full of milk, blood, and fluid, often making them feel tight and uncomfortable. Engorgement often causes:
- Swelling, fullness, tenderness
- Difficulty latching
- Generalized tightness across both breasts
When to Contact a GP or Lactation Consultant
Always reach out if:
- You feel unwell or develop a fever
- There’s visible pus, bleeding, or spreading redness
- Pain becomes intense or doesn’t improve
- You suspect thrush, especially if baby has white mouth patches
- Your baby refuses to feed or appears unsettled
Don’t wait - early support can prevent problems from worsening.
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Don’t stop feeding - regular emptying helps almost every condition
- Alternate warm and cold compresses to ease pain
- Seek help early if symptoms persist more than 24–48 hours
- Keep nipples protected
- Trust your instincts - you know when something isn’t right
Breastfeeding challenges are common, but you don’t have to manage them alone. With the right care, tools, and guidance, most conditions can be resolved quickly and safely.
Whether it’s a sore nipple, blocked duct, or something more persistent, Lansinoh is here to support you, so you can focus on feeding, bonding, and feeling good about your journey.
