Hi Everyone!

     I have been doing a lot of reading and very little writing, but this one
has me slightly stumped:

     I received a call from a mom that I assisted about 5 1/2 years ago.  She
nursed her son for 4 1/2 years.  She weaned 11 months ago.  Currently, she is
experiencing pain beneath her left nipple that she claims, "feels like a
plugged duct".  We've discussed a number of issues.  She is a caffeine
addict, so the possibility exists that this could be fibrocystic?

     However, her son cuddles with her on that side (they have a family bed)
and his head tends to lay on that breast.  In addition, the seat belt lays
over that breast and she is a "chauffeur mom"--BIG TIME!  So, the possibility
exists that it could be a plugged duct.

     I have been "responsible" and suggested that she see her doctor, and get
a current mammogram (she is 36), but if it is unexplainable through
mammography, couldn't she have a plugged duct?  And if she does, how should
she treat it? Normally I would suggest pumping and heat, followed by cold
compress and cabbage, but I am not sure she is up for that suggestion, since
she already "dried up" almost a year ago.

     Any other suggestions would be appreciated!!


                                                               Debbie Albert,
Ph.D., IBCLC
                                                               Tampa, Florida