Hand Expression
A Simple Way to Remove Milk
When it comes to expressing breast milk, many people first think of using a baby or a breast pump. But did you know that you can also express milk using your hands? Hand expression is a gentle and effective option, especially in the early days after birth.1 In fact, many mothers find that hand expression is often more effective than pumping during those first few days. It can help ease engorgement, prevent clogged ducts, and stimulate milk production. Additionally, combining hand expression with pumping has been shown to remove more milk than pumping alone and is more effective for boosting milk production.2,3
Benefits of Hand Expression
- Effectiveness in Early Days: Hand expression is often more effective than a pump in the first few days postpartum.
- Stimulates Milk Production: Encourages milk flow, especially in the early days.
- Eases Engorgement: Relieves discomfort caused by overly full breasts.
- Prevent Clogged Ducts: Helps maintain milk flow and prevents blockages.
- Enhanced Pumping: Using hand expression after pumping can increase milk removal and boost milk supply.3
- Accessibility: Hand expression is a low-tech option that can be used in any setting, making it especially valuable in emergencies.1
Hand Expression May be Especially Helpful For:
- Separation from Baby: If you and your baby are separated after birth, hand expression helps protect your milk supply and enables you to provide your baby with expressed breast milk.
- Difficulty Latching: If your baby is struggling to latch, hand expression can soften your breast, making it easier for them to feed.
- Relieving Discomfort: If you’re feeling full and your baby isn’t ready to feed, a little hand expression can quickly relieve discomfort.
- Ongoing Use: Many mothers continue to use hand expression throughout their breastfeeding journey, finding it preferable at times to using a pump.
How To Hand Express Breast Milk1
- Wash Your Hands: Start by washing your hands with soap and water, then dry them well.
- Choose a Clean Container: Select a clean container to collect your milk. This could be a spoon, medicine cup, or breast pump flange, depending on your milk supply.
- Stimulate Milk Flow: Gently massage, tap, and roll your breasts with your fingertips to stimulate milk flow.
- Position Your Hands: Place your thumb on top of your breast and your fingers underneath, then gently press towards your chest.
- Compress the Tissue: Compress the breast tissue, hold briefly, and then release. Avoid squeezing or pinching the nipple.
- Be Patient: It takes practice to find what works best for you. Your first attempts may yield only a few drops, especially with colostrum, but remember that every drop counts.
- Rotate and Switch: Rotate your hand around your breast and switch to the other breast after a few minutes or when the milk flow slows or stops.
Additional Tips for Successful Hand Expression
- Warm Compresses: Apply warmth to your breasts prior to expressing.
- Visualization Techniques: Relax and imagine your milk flowing.
- Engage Your Senses: Smelling your baby’s clothing, watching videos of your baby, or listening to recordings of happy baby sounds may help stimulate the milk ejection reflex.
- Stress Reduction: Practice deep breathing, stretching, or receive a shoulder massage to reduce tension.
What If I Have Questions?
If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:
- Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
- Pumping 101
- Moms Circle
To register for these classes, log into your portal or click here.
Want More Info?
For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:
References