Soothing the Swell: The Art of Breast Massage in Pregnancy

Why do my breasts hurt in pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a time of great changes in the body, many of them uncomfortable and breasts are no exception. The hormones of pregnancy make your breasts grow in preparation for producing milk, and that in turn can lead to pain, tenderness, tingling and feelings of engorgement. 

What can I do about my painful breasts?

Gentle breast massage is an excellent way to help alleviate some of the discomfort in your breasts. Your breasts don’t have muscles, but are instead made up of fascia, lymph, fat cells and milk ducts. The fascia is what you’re feeling stretch, and by massaging your breasts, we can help sooth tightness and inflammation as well as encourage lymphatic drainage, which is crucial in reducing swelling and discomfort caused by fluid retention.

In short, breast massage will help relieve your breast discomfort, help prevent stretch marks on your breasts and aid in milk production.

Can I massage my breasts myself at home?

You absolutely should! During our session, I teach you a short breast massage routine that you can do yourself at home. Massaging your breasts yourself for a few minutes a day, will absolutely set you up for success when it comes time for breastfeeding. 

When should I begin breast massage?

You can start at any time but if you haven’t already, please come in for a breast massage during your third trimester. 

When is it not safe to do breast massage?

Gentle breast massage is safe in almost all pregnancies. The only times when it is not safe is if you have an injury or active infection on or in the breast or if your doctor has advised you to be on bed rest / pelvic rest.

I’ve heard breast massage can induce labor? Is this true?

While nipple stimulation can be a natural form of induction, that is a very concentrated kind of stimulation over time, and is not what we are doing during our breast  massages. 

What about after I have my baby? Can I come for a breast massage postpartum?

Postpartum breast massage is excellent in helping relieve engorgement or plugged ducts or after mastitis. (For mastitis, you must be finished with your antibiotics before coming in). It can also be helpful for issues of low milk supply in conjunction with seeing a lactation consultant. (Click here for my recommendations for Seattle based lactation consultants). As the need for postpartum breast massage is often not something you can plan ahead for, I offer two last minute appointments each week for this. 
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Click here to book your breast massage at Seattle Pregnancy Massage

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