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 : )