A Pinch of Salt

For two consecutive Saturdays, I had blocked milk ducts in my right breast which was very painful. Turned out it was caused by a milk blip or blister. Both times I cleared it with hot compress and massaging it while pumping. Because it happened 2 consecutive weekends, I wanted to see someone professional to ensure the blockage was completely cleared.

Blocked ducts can lead to something serious - mastitis, which is the infection of breast tissue. It is extremely painful and will cause a fever. Worse, it will affect your milk supply. The most effective way of clearing the block is to have baby latch on. As I'm not latching, my next best solution is hot compress and massage. I was recommended Mdm Rokiah who is very experienced in helping mummies clear their ducts through breast massage. So off I went making an appointment with her.

Mdm Rokiah also specialises in post natal jamu treatment and she has a small shop in Joo Chiat. The moment she touches my breasts, she shakes her head. Very very blocked. Full of big lumps. She pressed and she squeezed and she rubbed and I was treated to a session of breastmilk facial. The milk squirted everywhere - my face, my hair, my body, my legs. Whilst she did managed to clear abit, the bad news was be caused they have been blocked for so long, my milk is actually cold. The right temperature should be body temp, but mine was cold. Out of the fridge kinda cold. In a way I was glad B wasn't latching coz I can't imagine him drinking the cold milk. No wonder he gave me a disgusted look when I tried to latch him recently. Oh well.

I wondered if I would feel this bad about myself if I had not gone for the massage. But according to Mdm Rokiah, they are a time bomb waiting to explode. So I guess better be safe than sorry.

The woes of a breastfeeding mum.