Blocked duct affecting supply

[Lisa B]

Hi there,

I am an exclusive expresser and get blocked ducts every 2-3 weeks. I was getting them when I was trying to BF as well, so no change there.

I've just had a duct clear (yesterday afternoon) as they usually do but my supply from that breast is really, really low...almost nothing. I am on all the usual things to support my supply (fenugreek, blessed thistle and motilium) and have been for about a month. Motilium worked wonders! I've also been on the breast pump every 2 hours during the day whilst I've had the blockage and since it cleared.

The breast that is very low in supply is usually my 'work horse' and usually produces a significant amount of milk compared to the other. I am now having to dip into my freezer stash to ensure I can feed DS.

Does anyone know if my supply will pick up now that the duct has cleared and how long does it take? I'm getting a bit nervous.

Thanks

[MantaRay]

Lisa, the supply should pick up again. Some mums do find that they have trouble getting milk out a breast after a blockage but it seems to be a temporary thing. You are doing all the right things already, but you could also try some gentle breast compression while you express, and swapping breasts after each let down. Sometimes this can really help. While you are still not getting much from that breast, trying to express again about 20 - 40 minutes after the first go could help too if you are able to find the time. You are doing a really amazing job hun, exclusive expressing is really hard work and I truly admire you. I hope that things are back to normal quickly for you.

[Lisa B]

Thanks Manta I think I'm back in business this morning (after about 15 hours of low supply). What a relief!!!!