How to Treat Duct Ectasia Naturally

Clogged milk ducts, or duct ectasia, sometimes requires medical treatment, such as antibiotics, ultrasound and possibly even surgery, but the condition can also resolve on its own. You can try natural remedies or home treatments and physical measures to treat the condition and relieve the pain, but if they aren't effective or if the symptoms worsen, seek medical attention, as mastitis is a possible complication.

Milk removal and pain medication such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are mainstays in the treatment of duct ectasia. Additionally, the following natural remedies and physical measures can be used to alleviate the pain associated with clogged mammary ducts. 

Apply a warm or cold compress to the duct 

Applying a warm or cold compress to the area surrounding the duct may soothe the pain. If you experience pain while nursing, you can apply a cooling pad or warm compress between feedings.

You should apply heat before breastfeeding or milk drainage and cold after breastfeeding.

Alternating the application of heat and cold to the affected area encourages milk flow and relieves discomfort and swelling. Specifically, a warm compress stimulates milk flow and makes drainage easier, while a cold compress reduces pain and swelling.

Massage the mammary duct 

When treating a clogged milk duct, breastfeeding should be done continuously while removing milk, along with alternating feeding positions. Applying a warm compress over the affected area while massaging the clogged duct can help, too.

Hands-on treatment of breast engorgement also reduces symptoms. Several studies have proven the effectiveness of self-massage techniques in resolving symptoms and reducing breast pain for individuals who are breastfeeding. A lactation study recommended the technique therapeutic breast massage in lactation (TBML) to decrease breast engorgement. TBML involves the following steps:

• A focused, gentle massage toward the armpit (axilla)
• Alternate gentle massaging and hand expression

Wear a well-fitting support bra

A good support bra goes a long way toward relieving the pain and symptoms associated with duct ectasia. Comfort is the gold standard in any bra. When choosing a bra, avoid underwires and ones that are too tight.

Never put unnecessary pressure on your breasts. Medical experts recommend any form of breast-binding be discontinued during lactation.

Try an herbal treatment  

Herbal infusions and soaks have been used to relieve breast pain for ages.

A comparative study found that a fenugreek seed poultice is effective in relieving breast engorgement. Other herbal poultices with anti-inflammatory properties, such as mullein, poke root, marshmallow root, and lavender or chamomile, can also be used.

To prepare an herbal poultice, gather the herbs, pour boiling water over them and steep for about 10 minutes. Wrap the herbs in a clean cloth and apply them to the affected area directly.

If mammary ducts remain clogged despite the use of these natural treatments, consult your doctor.

Reports show an Epsom salt soak is also effective in relieving sore breasts. You can dip your breasts in a bowl of clean, warm water that contains a generous helping of Epsom salts.

Lastly, while there is no scientific evidence proving its efficacy, the application of cabbage leaves has been used for years to relieve breast engorgement.

The above are nonmedical treatments you can try to reduce the discomfort and pain associated with duct ectasia. If mammary ducts remain clogged despite the use of these home treatments, consult your doctor.