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

Lactostasis is the accumulation of breast milk in a specific area of the breast due to impaired milk flow. Almost every breastfeeding mother is familiar with this term — if she has not experienced it herself, she has probably heard about it from friends.

If you feel fullness or tension in your breasts, notice a painful area or a “lump,” or develop localized redness, it is most likely lactostasis. If not addressed in time, an infection may develop in the inflamed area, potentially leading to mastitis.

Why Does Lactostasis Occur?

The main causes include:

• ineffective sucking;
• excessively long intervals between feeds or missed feeds;
• compression of the milk ducts (tight underwear or pressing the breast with a finger during feeding);
• nipple injuries or pain that lead to fewer breastfeeding sessions;
• excessive pumping.

Lactostasis is not a “blocked duct that needs to be emptied by force.” It involves inflammation and swelling of the tissues, which narrows the milk ducts.

Preventing Lactostasis

Current recommendations focus on effective and regular emptying of the breasts without causing trauma.

1. Effective latch — the baby's mouth is wide open, taking in not only the nipple but also the areola, and breastfeeding is not painful.
2. Breastfeeding on demand for both the baby and the mother — you may also feel the need to feed your baby.
3. Avoid excessive stimulation — there is no need to “pump to the last drop.”
4. Minimize pressure on the breasts — wear comfortable underwear and avoid pressure from straps, slings, or hands.

Treatment of Lactostasis

The main goal is to reduce inflammation and restore normal milk flow rather than trying to “squeeze” the milk out.

What Should You Do?

1. Continue breastfeeding — this is the basis of treatment. Breast milk is completely safe for your baby, and there is no need to stop breastfeeding.
2. Before feeding, you can perform a gentle drainage massage from underneath the breast and from the nipple toward the armpit. The massage should be painless, similar to “stroking a cat.” You can also take a warm shower and have a warm drink before breastfeeding.
3. After breastfeeding or pumping, apply something cold to the breast. This can be a reusable cold pack, a diaper soaked in water and frozen, or even vegetables from your freezer. Cold can help reduce swelling and pain.
4. After consulting a healthcare professional, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended.

What Should You NOT Do?

• aggressively massage or try to “break up” the affected area;
• apply heat to the breast before or after feeding;
• pump until the breast feels “completely empty”;
• endure the pain and stop breastfeeding.

These actions may increase swelling and worsen your condition.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention promptly if your temperature rises above 38.5°C, symptoms do not improve within 24–48 hours, the pain becomes worse, or your overall condition deteriorates.

You are already doing the best for your baby — a little care for yourself, and things will get better.

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