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Early motherhood is often celebrated for its joy, but it can also come with its share of challenges, including pain and frustration from issues like milk blebs, or milk blisters, on your nipples. According to Kelly Mom, a milk bleb is simply a blocked pore on your nipple, which occurs when skin covers your milk duct, causing milk to back up. Let’s explore what this means for you and how to alleviate the discomfort.
What is a milk bleb?
Milk blebs are thought to result from an oversupply of milk, as well as latching and sucking difficulties your baby may be experiencing. Additionally, they can be caused by nipple thrush, which presents as small white spots on the nipple. If you have multiple milk blisters, What To Expect suggests that thrush might be the culprit. A single bleb usually indicates a blocked pore. Typically, blisters from thrush are more painful, while those from oversupply may improve after feeding or pumping.
Though not serious, milk blebs can be quite uncomfortable, especially during feedings. They generally heal on their own within a week or two, but as you navigate motherhood, you might want to explore ways to prevent and treat these pesky nuisances.
What does a milk bleb look like?
A milk bleb appears as a small white or yellow spot near the nipple, resembling a pimple on the verge of bursting. There may also be redness and swelling around the bleb, intensifying discomfort while breastfeeding. It’s important not to pop a milk bleb, as doing so can lead to infection.
How to prevent milk blisters?
Taking proactive steps can help prevent milk blebs. Here are some effective strategies:
- Pump between feedings: Pumping during off-hours can prevent milk from clogging your ducts, especially as your baby’s feeding schedule changes.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water not only benefits your body but also helps flush your system and unclog milk ducts.
- Hand express: After feeding, hand express to relieve any remaining milk and wash your nipple with warm, soapy water to prevent blebs.
- Adopt a comfortable feeding position: Ensure that you and your baby are in a comfortable position during feedings to avoid nipple irritation.
- Moisturize your nipples: Clean and dry your nipples after each feeding and apply olive oil to keep them moisturized and prevent clogging.
How to treat milk blisters?
Milk blebs often resolve on their own, but if you need relief, consider these home remedies:
- Warm compress: Apply a warm, wet washcloth to the bleb for 10-15 minutes before feeding.
- Epsom salt solution: Mix two teaspoons of Epsom salt in a cup of hot water. Soak your breasts or wrap them in a cloth soaked in the solution to help open the ducts. Aim for this treatment at least four times a day.
- Nurse your baby: The suckling action may help open the bleb. If you’re in pain, consult your doctor about taking pain relief beforehand.
- Clean and treat: If the bleb opens, wash the area with warm, soapy water and apply an antibiotic ointment, similar to treating a minor scrape.
- Seek medical assistance: If the bleb persists in causing discomfort, consider visiting your doctor, who can safely open the bleb with a sterile needle.
Milk blebs may be bothersome, but they’re manageable. Prioritize your comfort and well-being.
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In summary, milk blebs can be a painful aspect of breastfeeding, but with the right preventive measures and treatments, you can manage them effectively.