"It is a wonderful feeling to know that I have not only given my babies a healthy start in life, but I have played a small part in helping others too."
Nicolette K (breastmilk donor) - Cape Town
Terri (breastmilk donor) Green Point
"It was a very rewarding experience knowing that I could make such a difference."
Tracy (breastmilk donor) - Devil's Peak
" I was told of the milk bank and immediately decided this was a brilliant idea and started donating my extra breastmilk."
Andi (breastmilk donor) - Dieprivier
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)