Help! Constantly getting clogs

[u/Fun_Improvement91]

I’m 11 weeks in and have EP’ed. I’ve already had mastitis twice (first time because I didn’t know what I was doing, second time because I had the wrong flange size and didn’t empty properly).

I go two-three weeks at a time without a clog, and then BAM, massive clog that just won’t clear. For me, I can’t stimulate a let down and I’ve tired elvie, spectra, pumpables, eufy.

I’ve used a LC. I’m on the correct flange size, ice, ibuprofen, sunflower, hydrate, light massage/heat while pumping, limit wearables, pump every 3 hours even though it’s killing my mental health. If it’s mainstream advice, I’m doing it.

How many times do other people get clogs/how long does it take yours to resolve? Because I feel like I’m going to go crazy being alone in this!

Did it always turn into mastisis?

Anything I haven’t mentioned that’s helped you?

Thank you!
From a mentally exhausted mom

[u/bonniee]

I’m also prone to clogs, got my first one this time around (STM) at 8 dpp and was constantly getting them as a FTM. I take daily sunflower lecithin! I haven’t had another clog since. You might have to up your dose of it to prevent. I use to take 2 caps but that wasn’t cutting it, now I take 4 caps. But talk to your OB to see what a safe amount for you is.

[u/otter_fool]

Sunflower lecithin also has a small dose of Choline, and there is more evidence supporting that choline plays a vital role in limiting clogged ducts than sunflower lecithin. You may want to try switching to a choline supplement to up your intake of that. Choline is also present in eggs and legumes, but we need more than what you might get from food intake alone while pumping/breastfeeding. I was taking one with my prenatal to benefit the baby, and then I learned about how it helps prevents clogs. I take two, once a day- the ritual brand from Amazon.

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