What is the cause and how do you treat a lump in the breast?

"Remember that your small effort can make a huge difference in the lives of babies that struggle for survival."

Michelle (breastmilk donor) - Cape Town

"I have cherished the opportunity to donate milk to a worthy cause."

Chloe (breastmilk donor) - Kreupelbosch

"I firmly believe that the practice of Milk Banking is still in it's infancy, globally and especially in South Africa. I expect it will steadily increase in profile and will progressively gain support until it overshadows blood transfusion both in the public and medical eye.

Donating breast milk is an act that involves the least pain and the most gain, compared to any other human tissue or organ donation. It is potentially life-saving and is worth more than equipment or staff. Together with KMC, it is an intervention that most doctors themselves cannot give, but most mothers can - it completes medical care."

Dr Alan Horn - Neonatologist (Cape Town, South Africa)

"It felt wonderful to be able to help other moms and babies in the same way that I had been helped. It has been very special to be both a donor and recipient of breastmilk through the milk bank."

Debbie K. (donor and recipient)

Milk Matters

What is the cause and how do you treat a lump in the breast?

A blocked milk duct may cause a lump, pain and redness in the breast.

Your baby may also become fussy at the breast as the milk flow may be slower than before.

This occurs when the milk ducts become blocked so that milk cannot pass through to the baby. The milk glands behind the ducts then fail to drain completely causing increased pressure and pain.

The condition is often linked to :

Wearing a constricting bra or clothing,
Insufficient drainage of the breast either by the baby, or
By infrequent feeding.

Encourage milk flow by applying warmth to the lumpy area before feeding and gently massaging the breast while feeding.
When possible, shorten the interval between feeds.
Change the baby's position at the breast. (See page on FAQ Position and Latch)
If the lumps continue they can also be very effectively treated by one or two ultrasound treatments administered by an experienced physiotherapist.

If you feel ill, headachy, and feverish, the surrounding tissue may have become inflamed in which case you need to see a doctor. (See Mastitis below)

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