Lactostasis — Why Does It Occur and What Should You Do?

Latostase – this is the stagnation of breast milk in a specific area of the mammary gland due to a disruption in its outflow. Almost every nursing mother knows about this concept – if she hasn’t encountered it herself, she has certainly heard about it from friends.

If you feel a fullness, tension in your breasts, have a painful area or "lump," and local redness – most likely, this is it. If you do not respond in a timely manner, an infection may join the site of inflammation, leading to the development of mastitis.

What causes lactostasis?

The main reasons:

• ineffective sucking;
• too long breaks or missed feedings;
• compression of ducts (tight clothing, pressing the gland with a finger during feeding);
• injuries to the nipple or pain that reduce the number of feedings;
• excessive pumping.

Latostase is not a “clogged duct that needs to be emptied,” but inflammation and swelling of tissues that narrow the ducts.

Prevention of lactostasis

Modern recommendations converge on effective and regular emptying of the breasts without trauma.

1. Effective attachment – the baby’s mouth is wide open, capturing not only the nipple but also the areola, with no pain during feeding.
2. Feeding on demand of the child and mother – you may also feel the need to feed.
3. Avoid excessive stimulation – no need to “empty to the last drop.”
4. Minimize pressure on the breasts – comfortable clothing, avoid pressure from straps, slings, or hands.

Treatment of lactostasis

The primary goal is to reduce inflammation and restore normal milk flow, not to "squeeze" it out.

What to do?

1. Continue breastfeeding – this is the foundation of treatment, the milk is completely safe for the baby, and there is no need to stop breastfeeding.
2. Before feeding, you can perform a light drainage massage toward the armpit, moving from under the breast and away from the nipple. The massage should be painless, like a "cat's caress." You may also take a warm shower and drink something warm before feeding.
3. After feeding or pumping, it is advisable to apply cold to the breast – this can be a special cold pack, a frozen diaper with water, or even vegetables from your freezer. Cold will help reduce swelling and lessen pain.
4. After consulting with a specialist, painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed.

What NOT to do:

• aggressively massage or "break up" the stagnation;
• heat the breasts before or after feeding;
• pump to "emptiness";
• endure pain and not feed.

Such actions can worsen swelling and lead to a deterioration of your condition.

When to see a doctor?

Contact a specialist immediately if the temperature is >38.5°C, symptoms do not improve within 24–48 hours, pain intensifies, and overall condition worsens.

You are already doing the best for your child – a little care for yourself, and everything will definitely get better.