I have a personal experience with these and therefore feel it's my duty that you know what they are too and how to treat them. A milk bleb, or blocked nipple pore, is also referred to as a nipple blister - this occurs when a tiny bit of skin overgrows a milk duct opening and solidified milk backs up behind it - boy do they hurt!
A milk bleb manifests as a painful white dot on the nipple or areola, and the pain tends to be focused at that spot and just behind it peaking during a feed. The frustrating thing about milk blisters is that they're persistent, often coming back again and again and again.
The recommend treatment is:
- Do not pop the bleb: avoid attempting to pop or squeeze the bleb yourself, as this can lead to infection or further complications.
- Warm compress: applying a warm, moist compress to the affected area before feeding can help soften the skin and promote drainage.
- Epsom salt soaks: soaking the nipple in warm water mixed with Epsom salts for 10–15 minutes before feeding may help.
- Olive oil application: applying a small amount of olive oil to the nipple can soften the skin and may assist in resolving the bleb.
- Frequent breastfeeding: continue to breastfeed regularly, starting on the affected side to help clear the blockage. Ensure your baby has a good latch to promote effective milk removal.
- Gentle massage: light, circular massage around the affected area can aid in relieving the blockage. Avoid deep or forceful massage, which can exacerbate inflammation.
Lecithin supplements: according to Dr Jack Newman “Lecithin may help with blocked ducts by decreasing its viscosity [stickiness] of the breast milk by increasing the percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the milk”. If you find that you're experiencing reoccurring milk blebs then 1200mg Lecithin supplements could be helpful for you
- 1 capsule, 3-4 times a day
- After 1-2 weeks without a milk bleb reduce to 1 capsule for a further 1-2 weeks
NOTE: this information is intended to support, not replace the relationship between you and your healthcare provider. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice tailored to your situation.
Photo credit: one of our most loyal customers Rachel McIntyre captured by Black Robin Photography