How to massage your breast

All of the massage techniques should always feel comfortable and pleasant. Avoid applying any pressure that gives you pain. 

The following techniques can be done as often as you would like. If someone else performs the massage on you make sure they do not cause any pain when handling the breast. 

You don’t have to do all the steps every single time. You may alternate or chose to do the ones that you enjoy the most. 

Lymphatic Drainage

Ideally lie down in a comfortable position, but sitting is fine as well. You may want to use some oil for your hands so they glide easily on your skin, but it’s not absolutely necessary. 

1. Start by taking 3-5 full breaths. You may want to count as you breath: 3-4 counts per breath in, 4-6 (or more) counts per breath out. Try holding the breath for 2-3 seconds at the top of inspiration. This helps dilation of lymphatic vessels and assists in draining the swelling and inflammation. You can continue this practice for as long as you would like. 
2. Using moderately firm pressure make circles in the middle of the armpit, 10 circles in each direction. Continue to practice the breathing technique. 
3. Lift and gently pull your pectoralis muscle away from the chest wall. Repeat few times. 
4. Using the palm of you hand gently stroke the breast towards the armpit and the collar bone (pressure as firm as if you were stroking a cat). It is better if you go over the whole breast, not just the affected area. Do 10-12 strokes. 
5. Press the palms of your hands together in front of the chest to activate pectoralis muscle. Do 10 pumps or more.  

Whole breast lifting:

1. Holding the breast with both hands (one on top and one at the bottom) lift and move it as if making the rays of the rainbow. Lift firmly so you the whole breast moves on the chest wall and the drainage is encouraged towards the armpit and the collarbone. 
2. Using both hands (same position as above) rotate the breast in opposite direction. Do this 2-3 times or as many as you would like. Remember to continue to practice your breathing technique and holding the breath on inspiration as you lift and rotate the breast. 

Milk ‘shake’:

Holding your breast as described above lift and gently ‘shake’ it. This can help loosen the connective tissue and make it easier for the milk producing cells to expand and empty into the milk ducts. 

Video

This video here does not contain all that is mentioned above but it contains useful information about hand expression and appropriate breast massage pressure.