Milk blisters, also known as milk blebs, are small, raised, fluid-filled areas of skin that can appear on the areola or tip of the nipple during breastfeeding or pumping. These blisters are typically caused by blocked milk ducts, which can lead to inflammation and疼痛. While most milk blisters resolve on their own with home treatment, some may require medical intervention.
Symptoms of Milk Blisters:
- Small, white or yellow spots on the areola or tip of the nipple
- Redness or inflammation surrounding the milk blister
- Pain or itching around the milk blister
- Fluctuation or hardness in the area where the milk bladder is blocked
Causes of Milk Blisters:
- Improper latch: Baby's mouth may not be sealing tightly around the nipple, allowing excess breast milk to flow back and block the duct.
- Feeding habits: Feeding at an unusual angle or missing meals can result in blocked milk ducts.
- Excess milk supply: If there is more milk produced than the baby can effectively drain, it can become backed up and clog ducts.
- Poor latching: A baby may not be latching deeply or properly, causing a lack of emptying the breast and leading to plugged ducts and blisters.
- Engorgement: A full and congested breast can cause milk blisters due to the pressure of overfull milk on the mammary ducts.
- Infection: An infection or trauma to the nipple can also be behind a milk-filled blister.
Treatment for Milk Blisters:
- Warm or cold compresses: Hold a warm washcloth over the milk blister for a few minutes before nursing to aid the letdown process, or soak the breast in warm saltwater and rub it with a cloth to dislodge the milk blister.
- Olive oil: Apply a cotton ball soaked in olive oil to the area around the milk blister to help soften the skin and promote its removal.
- Massaging the area: Gently massage the area around the milk blister in a downward motion towards the nipple area to encourage a loosening of the plugged duct.
- Changing your feeding position: Try different feeding positions, such as kneeling on all fours or using a pillow to support your breast while feeding, to reduce friction and pressure on the nipple.
- Pumping: If the issue persists, consider pumping to remove excess milk and empty the breast completely.
Prevention of Milk Blisters:
- Mix up your breastfeeding positions: A solid latch as well as a variety of positions during each feeding can help your ducts empty more efficiently.
- Keep baby's latching deep: Encourage your baby to latch on deeply and properly to ensure a effective letdown.
- Avoid overfeeding: Ensure that your baby is getting the appropriate amount of milk during each feeding to avoid overfilling the breast and leading to blisters.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help maintain good milk flow and prevent engorgement and blisters.
- Wearing comfortable bras: Avoid wearing too-tight or underwire bras that can irritate the nipple and contribute to milk blister formation.
When to Call the Doctor:
- If a milk blister becomes红肿, hot, or inflamed, or if it causes significant pain or discomfort that interferes with breastfeeding.
- If you notice a change in the texture of your nipple or areola, such as a hard lump, or if a milk blister does not resolve with home treatment within a few weeks.
- If you experience fever, chills, or body aches in addition to milk blisters.
Milk blisters are a common challenge for breastfeeding mothers, but with proper care and treatment, most women can continue to successfully breastfeed their infants. It is important to monitor your baby's comfort and seek medical attention if necessary.
