Breast Massage for Breastfeeding - Benefits & Tips

Breast Massage for Breastfeeding – Benefits & Tips

Breastfeeding is the most natural thing in the world. So, who knew there were so many things about it that new moms should know? If you have done research or spoken to someone who has already had children, you will know that there are quite a number of problems that can arise due to breastfeeding. From milk production issues, such as producing too little or too much, to plugged milk ducts, all new mothers will need to know how to handle whatever comes their way.

While each may have its own remedy, one trick will help to keep most of these breastfeeding problems in check: a lactation massage. While it may seem like something you will need to call a professional for, it is not. A lactation massage is so simple that you can do it yourself. All you need is a slight bit of guidance and you will be able to take care of yourself. There is nothing better than finding a home remedy that does not require any medication.

What Is a Lactation Massage?

Lactation massages are often done after a woman has delivered and experiences engorgement of the breasts. The massage technique is the same as a normal breast massage, but it has many benefits for a mother who is lactating. Breast massage for milk production is one of the main reasons why women are advised to indulge in these massages.

woman doing a lactation massage

Benefits of a Lactation Massage

Breast massages are good for any woman for health reasons. From taking care of sore muscles to being able to easily identify any breast tumours, all women should add a breast massage to their daily routine. For lactating mothers, however, it is vital. Here are some benefits of Lactation Massage for breastfeeding mothers:

1. Healthier Milk

A study done on breastfeeding mothers showed that mothers who received a thirty-minute massage twice a day experienced that the sodium levels in their breast milk had reduced. There was also increased levels of lipids, solids, gross energy and casein. The only thing that showed no signs of change was the content of lactose in breast milk.

2. Reduced Pain

In the study, it also showed that the mothers who had been given the massages experienced less pain while breastfeeding. Their babies were also able to consume more milk as it was easier for them to drain the breast. During your daily lactation massage, the milk that clogs ducts or causes any breast hardening gets loosened. This will help things to flow smoothly again, and will also relieve any pain caused by clogged ducts.

3. Better Milk Flow

Studies have shown that a massage while breastfeeding works well to empty out the milk ducts and stimulate more milk production. A good lactation massage can help to produce Oxytocin, which helps in relaxing the milk duct muscles.

4. Better Latching

Babies find it difficult to latch on to the nipples when they are too hard. Nipple massage for lactation will help in softening the breast and ensuring that it is much easier for your baby to latch on.

5. Prevention of Saggy Breasts and Stretch Marks

Breastfeeding can take a toll on the appearance of the breast. As the breast gets bigger while nursing, you can develop stretch marks after it has to go back to its regular size when you are done with your breastfeeding period. A massage with cold-pressed oils such as olive, coconut or almond oil, can help to solve this problem. A gentle massage will help the blood start circulating. The breasts need a bit of help to get the blood flowing, even on a normal basis. This is because while the rest of the body may get movement daily, your breasts do not really move. Getting the blood flowing is said to help in retaining the youth of the body as well.

lactation massage

How to Perform a Breast Massage for Lactation?

Breast massage for lactation can be done quite easily. While it may sound like there are complicated steps involved, that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Here is a step by step instructions on massage techniques for breastfeeding you can do at home.

1. Warm Your Hands

You will need to first ensure your hands are warm. This can be done by using a heated towel. Once your hands are nicely warmed up, you will need to start with the lymph glands in the armpits. Pumping the lymph glands will get your blood flowing.

2. Lubricate

You will need a lubricant of some sort while you do the massage. Apply virgin coconut or olive oil. Almond oil is another great choice. If you want to apply lotions, you will need to use a natural and organic lotion while breastfeeding.

3. Be Gentle

While it might be tempting to use force, it is best to use gentle motions and not press very hard while you are performing your massage. If you press too hard, you will damage your glandular tissue. The glandular tissue is the part that makes the milk, so it is important you take care. If you don’t feel any pain, then you are doing it well.

4. Use Kneading Motions

Gently start to knead the breast in a circle. You can use flat hands, fists, and even your fingertips to massage the area properly.

5. Use Your Fingertips on the Areola

The fingertips work well around the pigmented area around your nipple. This is called the “areola”

6. Rhythmic Massage

A rhythmic massage hand massage when breastfeeding, using circular motions, along with hand expression, work well together. This can also be done with a pump instead of hand expression. Hand expression is simply using your hands to drain your breast of milk rather than having your baby do it or by using a pump. This was the only way mothers could pump milk themselves before the invention of breast pumps.

7. Light Strokes

If you have fluid retention in your breasts, using light strokes will help to relive that. They help with reducing any inflammation you have and promote better circulation.

8. Watch Out for This Sign

Once you start to feel a warmth start to spread in your breasts, you know that your massage is working. This means that the flow of blood has increased in the breasts. Good blood circulation in the breasts is very important as it will help to keep things moving well.

9. Try It During a Bath

These breast massages can be done during your bath as well. Soap can be used as a lubricant. Most women are more relaxed in the bath, so it is a great time to do it.

Are There Any Major Risks of Breast Massage During Lactation?

Breast massage during lactation is generally safe if done correctly, but it’s advisable to seek guidance from a lactation consultant or doctor before proceeding, particularly if you have a breast infection like mastitis.

FAQs

1. How Often Can I Take Lactation Massage?

Performing lactation massage at regular intervals before nursing or pumping can potentially enhance milk supply. However, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s recommendations when incorporating this technique.

2. Can Mothers Who Have C-sections Safely Get Lactation Massage?

Lactation massages are considered safe for mothers who have had a C-section, and they can be administered by nurses. These massages can aid in stimulating breast milk production and addressing concerns like breast engorgement, pain, and delayed breastfeeding initiation.

If you are suffering from any of the ailments mentioned above, you should consider giving yourself a lactation massage. A simple breastfeeding and massage to induce lactation can be tried before taking any medication for the same. You can do it at any time of the day that you feel comfortable. You can massage your breast after breastfeeding or do it during a relaxing bath. As long as you are getting it done at least once a day, you will start to notice a positive change to your breastfeeding and comfort level during the same. Caring for a little one can be very stressful and it is one of the most important things a mother can do. However, if you want to give your baby your best, you will need to take care of yourself as well.

References/Resources:

1. Breastfeeding Support for Mothers Facing Breast Fullness and Engorgement; uhhospitals.org; https://www.uhhospitals.org/services/obgyn-womens-health/patient-resources/pregnancy-resources/Breastfeeding-Guide/breastfeeding-breast-fullness-and-engorgement

2. Lactation Massage for Increasing Breast Milk Production in Postpartum Mothers; jqph.org; https://jqph.org/index.php/JQPH/article/view/168

3. Postpartum Massage; americanpregnancy.org; https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/first-year-of-life/postpartum-massage/

4. Hand Expression of Breastmilk; laleche.org.uk; https://www.laleche.org.uk/hand-expression-of-breastmilk/

Also Read:

Best Foods to Increase Breast Milk
Lactation Tea – Is It Really Effective?
Lactation Supplements That May Help to Increase Milk Supply

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Gauri Ratnam completed her Masters in English Literature from the University of Pune. She began her journey as a German translator soon after completing her graduation, but later moved on to pursue her passion for writing. Having written for both digital and print media in a varied range of industries, she has the ability to write relatable and well-researched content, benefical for anyone seeking advice or direction.