Clogged ducts can be extremely painful, but with the proper tools and care plan you can help prevent or relieve them much more easily.
Here are simple steps to help relieve clogged ducts using the LaVie Lactation Massager. Please note that the severity of clogged ducts can be different for every woman. For some women, following this protocol just once will be enough while others will need to repeat it a few times before the clogged duct is completely resolved. Mums who are looking to reduce or relieve engorgement can also follow the same plan to help relieve engorgement.
1. Warm the breast
Applying heat can help soften the breast and make it easier to get your milk flowing. You can take a warm shower or place a warm, moist compress on the breast for 10 minutes.
Tip: Use the massager in the shower, it's waterproof! The BodyICE breast pads are perfect to apply heat to your breast and fit into your bra.
2. Turn on the massager
Press and hold the circle power button for 3 seconds to activate. Once activated, make sure to press the power button once to start and change the vibration mode to your preference. You can use the up and down arrows to change the intensity levels. Here is a video explanation.
Tip: You can use a baby safe nipple cream, such as Lanolin or an oil based balm to help the massager glide over the breast more easily.
3. Soften the area
If you feel very engorged or the plugged duct is very hard, you can use the wide bottom side of the massager to help soften the area and express milk. Set the vibration mode to your preferred setting and gently press the wide side of the massager on the breast. Move the massager from the hard or tender area toward the nipple for approximately 10 minutes.
4. Apply direct pressure
Using the narrow tip, press into the hardened tender area of the breast, moving towards the nipple. It may feel very tender, so apply as much pressure as you feel comfortable. You can also use the bottom and side edges to scoop or slide on the breast.
5. Empty the breast
In order to relieve the clog, it is important to empty the breast often. If possible, breastfeed on the affected breast first, since your little one will feed more vigorously at the beginning of a feed. If your breast still feels firm after feeding, pump the affected breast until softened. Use the massager to help express the milk while feeding or pumping. During breastfeeding, you can use the massager on the off setting so that the vibrations do not distract your little one.
Tip: If you have an oversupply of milk or are weaning and get a clogged duct, you do not need to empty the breast entirely. Pump just enough to get the clog out or relieve engorgement. Try 'dangle feeding' where you lean over your baby so that gravity can assist in draining the breast.
6. Cool down (Optional)
Cooling down the breast can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. As an optional step, apply a cold compress for approximately 10 minutes.
Rest & Repeat
Make sure to rest as much as possible so your body can heal itself. This process can be repeated every 2-3 hours until the clogged duct is fully resolved.
Patience and persistence is key to relieving clogged ducts. If you notice your breast getting softer after feedings, you are on the road to recovery. Some women resolve their clogged ducts after following this protocol just once, while many women need to repeat the process a few times before the issue is completely resolved.
If the problem persists for more than 24-48 hours or you feel-flu like symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
