Breast engorgement occurs when the milk comes in between two to four days after the baby is born. The breast can be hard, painful and swollen which may restrict the flow of milk by compressing the ducts. This can make it difficult for the baby to attach and feed well.
Blocked ducts are tender, localised lump/s in the breast often with redness in the overlying skin. This can indicate the milk duct is blocked by thickened milk. Typically, it will feel more painful before a feed than afterwards and the lumpy area may become smaller after feed but not disappear. The mother is generally well apart from the localised breast discomfort. When these blocked ducts are not cleared they can quite quickly develop into mastitis – an infection of the breast tissue. With mastitis women tend to feel unwell and have a temperature. They may also have body aches, nausea and chills – this should be treated with antibiotics from you GP.
The awkward positions women often end up in when breastfeeding coupled with the amount of time spent feeding on a daily basis can mean that very quickly many women develop painful necks, backs, shoulders and wrists. If left to build up this can not only affect your joy of feeding but also your ability to cope with the physical demands of looking after a new baby between feeds as well.
book onlineBreastfeeding support physiotherapy services are currently offered from 3 of our clinics: Fitzrovia, Kensington & Parsons Green,
If you are looking for ultrasound treatment for blocked breast ducts, research has shown that you may need two to three treatments on consecutive days to clear the blockage and prevent it returning effectively. It is also best to try and book your appointments so that you are able to breastfeed your baby within 20 minutes following your ultrasound treatment.
If you are experiencing fever or chills along with the breast tenderness, you may have developed mastitis – it is important to speak with your GP as this should be promptly treated with antibiotics.
For any other questions please send us an email, give us a call on 020 7036 0286 or book online using the button above.
