Blood Clot While Pumping Breast Milk: Is This Okay?

If you are a new mom, pumping breast milk may be tricky. But you are still learning and thinking about breastfeeding or pumping classes. But what if you notice a blood clot or blood in the breast milk? You would be concerned.

It’s best to talk to a healthcare provider to guide you. The information here is not medical advice. It’s for discussing the situation and various possibilities. Read on for more information.

Why Is There Blood or A Blood Clot while Pumping Breast Milk?

While you may least expect it, a blood clot while pumping breast milk is possible. Just like any other part of your body, blood clots can form on your breasts. However, if you notice a blood clot while pumping breast milk, it’s best to seek medical attention and let your healthcare professional know about the situation.

Some users on what to expect community talked about the danger of blood clots while breastfeeding, and it appears that it happens to many breastfeeding moms. Usually, it’s best to call the doctor and tell them about the situation. However, the electric breast pump has powerful suction, so if a dangerous blood clot forms on the nipple because of a cut, the breast pump can suck it, making it appear weird to you!

You can observe blood in the pumped breast milk if your nipples are damaged. For example, there could be an infection causing the blood in the milk, or it could be because of the rusty pipe syndrome, where more blood flows to the nipples when your body is preparing the breasts for milk, and thus, colostrum may appear rusty or as if the blood in the milk.

There could be blood in the milk because of mastitis. The milk is trapped in the milk ducts. There could also be swelling, fever, and pain. The milk in the blood could also be because of breast cancer, even though it’s rare.

So, there are many reasons to have blood or risk of blood clots in the milk. First, you must talk to your doctor or the lactation consultant. It’s always better to be on the safe side and rule out the possibility of an underlying issue. Follow your doctor’s instructions when you find blood in the pumped milk breast.

How to Use Breast Pumps Correctly to Avoid Any Issues While Breastfeeding?

To avoid injury, bruising, blood clots, or other issues, you must know how to use the breast pumps correctly. You can also take help from a lactation consultant or a healthcare professional. However, when you are a new breastfeeding mom, it could be overwhelming!

Consider the following:

Read The Manual Instructions

The first thing you can do while using the breast pump is read the manual instructions and use it as directed. When you know how to use a product, you can make the most of it! However, incorrectly using the breast pump can do more damage to the nipples. Also, opt for reputable brands instead of cheap ones.

It’s best to buy the breast pumps first hand rather than previously owned as you can find the instructions manual with a brand new product. Also, you can minimize the chance of germs when you buy a new breast pump.

Use the Correct Flange Size

The flange or the breast shield goes over your nipple, so you need to know what size would be the right fit. While it may be challenging to find the perfect size, it’s vital to avoid issues while breast pumping.

You can ask a lactation consultant or healthcare provider to help with flange size. You can try using different breast shields and see what you prefer the most!

Position Your Breast Correctly

It’s vital that while using the breast pump, you position the breast correctly. Some women may not know the correct flange size or may not position the breast correctly, which can be an issue.

Use Settings That Suit You

All women are different, and the same goes for the settings for the breast pumps. What setting suits a breastfeeding mom may not suit the other! So, you need to see what’s the most viable option available to you.

Take Regular Breaks While Breastfeeding

While it’s easy to find yourself busy with a newborn, you may forget to take breaks! As a result, you must give your nipples some rest. So, consider taking regular breaks while breastfeeding and see if it helps.

Talk to A Professional

When in doubt about pain during breast pumping, talk to a professional to guide you better. You must check with the doctor as you don’t want a breast infection or an underlying issue.

FAQs

Is it okay to use pumped breast milk with blood in it?

Usually, it’s okay to give breast milk pumped with blood in it. But it’s best to ask your doctor first. Also, if the parent has a disease that can pass on to the baby from the amount of blood, it would be best to discuss it with the doctor in the first place. You must always share your questions and concerns with the healthcare provider when in doubt.

How can I increase my knowledge about pumping breast milk and breastfeeding?

Being a new breastfeeding mom, you may have limited knowledge about breastfeeding and pumping breast milk. However, you can consider classes on breastfeeding and pumping.

It’s also vital that you understand the correct usage of the breast pump and find the correct size of the flange. When you have questions or concerns about breastfeeding and your overall health, it’s best to talk to a doctor or a lactation consultant.

How do I sit in a comfortable position while pumping breast milk?

Setting a comfortable ambiance and finding the most comfortable sitting position while pumping the breast milk supply can make a huge difference. If you notice bruising in the nipples or your back hurts, try changing the way you usually sit for pumping.

A change in your sitting position can make the situation better. You can try different things to find a safe and comfortable space for you while breastfeeding journey.

Wrapping It Up

There are many reasons for a blood clot or blood to appear in breast milk. It can surely panic you, but it’s best to talk to your doctor as soon as possible. If you experience fever, chest pain, and flu-like symptoms, seek medical attention!

Reference:

https://community.whattoexpect.com/forums/exclusive-pumping/topic/blood-clots-from-pumping-.html

https://thepumpingmommy.com/7-causes-of-blood-in-pumped-breast-milk/

https://www.verywellfamily.com/blood-in-breast-milk-431550

https://www.genuinelactation.com/blog-for-breastfeeding-families/strawberry-milk-and-blood-clots