Final answer:
The statement is True; blocked ducts can result from milk stasis or external pressure on areas of the breast. Effective milk removal and avoiding tight clothing can prevent and help manage this condition during lactation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Blocked ducts occur as a result of milk stasis or external pressure applied to specific areas of the breast. This condition can arise during lactation when milk is not effectively removed from the breast or external pressure, such as from tight clothing, inhibits the flow of milk through the lactiferous ducts. Blocked ducts can lead to discomfort and potential complications such as mastitis if not resolved quickly.
The anatomy of the lactating breast includes mammary glands composed of milk-transporting lactiferous ducts, which expand during pregnancy and lactation. Within these structures, milk is secreted from lactocytes in the alveoli, and then moves into ducts that converge at the nipple. Key to this process is the hormone prolactin, which supports the establishment and maintenance of the milk supply.
Blocked ducts can be prevented and treated through practices that ensure regular, complete emptying of the breast during breastfeeding, and by avoiding external pressure on the breasts, which might include wearing loose-fitting bras and varying the breast-feeding positions.