WHAT IS BREAST MASSAGE?
Breast massage can takes multiple forms and are performed by the mother. Some mothers know of a “massage-stroke-shake” method of assisting the milk ejection reflex developed by lactation consultant Chele Marmet. In this method, mothers massage their breasts with a pressure and motion in a manner similar to those used in a breast exam. “Alternate massage,” another technique sometimes recommended here, involves massaging and compressing the breast when the baby pauses between sucking bursts.
Hands on pumping is another method combining the use of a breast pump and breast massage to increase pumping output. Lastly, in recent years, breast massage has become even easier with the addition of vibrating breast massagers.
WHAT DOES BREAST MASSAGE DO?
A few studies have tried to answer this question, and have found that breast massage:
- It is often used to help resolve plugged or engorged areas of the breast
- Increases oxytocin but not prolactin
- Increases milk production in women who are pumping for preterm infants.
- (As alternate massage) Increases breastmilk intake and weight gain
- Alters milk composition in late term lactation, but not early term lactation, by increasing milk solids, including fat
The finding that massage has an effect on hormones makes sense, since we know that touch of many kinds increases oxytocin. And we might take our cue on this from babies, who actually massage their mothers’ breasts on their own!
IS BREAST MASSAGE NECESSARY?
In the normal course of breastfeeding, breast massage is likely not necessary for mothers to produce plenty of milk. For mothers who are having difficulty with specific issues such as milk supply, pumping, milk ejection, plugged ducts, or engorgement, it’s one of a number of tools available which they might consider.
Of course, massage should be used concurrently with the basics of establishing milk supply: frequent and effective feeding, and good attachment to the breast.
