Threads of milk strings can occur after the clearing of a plugged duct;
however, they are also common with chronic ductal yeast (see a connection
anyone?)  Those of you who have managed chronic yeast will probably recall
moms having a history of plugged ducts too.  The standard breast yeast
treatments (See Lact Consult series #18 and/or my Midwifery Today article)
can help.  In addition, the use of dietary lecithin has "cured" many cases
of chronic plugged ducts. Lecithin is a fat emulsifying agent (It is the
part of the egg yolk that makes mayonnaise "work"--that is the fat stays in
suspension).  Beyond this, deep breast massage also has aided many mothers.

: )Chris Hafner-Eaton, PhD, MPH, CHES, IBCLC  email: [log in to unmask]   : )
: )HSR & Health Educational Consultant        voice/fax: 541 753 7340    : )
: )LLLLLLLLLLLLL**CHANGE THE WORLD, NURTURE A CHILD!**LLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL : )