Breast compression is a valuable technique for nursing mothers, promoting the release and flow of breastmilk for your baby. It is especially beneficial when your baby is not sucking effectively or swallowing milk. This guide highlights the advantages of breast compression for both mothers and babies, providing detailed instructions on how to use this method effectively.
Benefits of Breast Compression
Breast compression offers several benefits for mothers. It helps relieve sore nipples and encourages a higher production of breast milk, making it an effective way to increase milk supply. Additionally, it assists in relieving recurrent issues with blocked ducts and mastitis.
For babies, breast compression is particularly useful. It is beneficial for babies who have frequent or long feeds but are not gaining sufficient weight. It supports feeding in babies who are unwell or born prematurely and aids babies with low muscle tone in feeding effectively.
How to Perform Breast Compression
Breast compression should be used while your baby is sucking but not swallowing milk. Follow these steps to ensure effective breast compression:
First, ensure your baby is latched onto your breast correctly. Proper latch is crucial for the effectiveness of breast compression.
Next, position your hand around your breast. Place your thumb on the upper side of your breast and your fingers underneath, away from the nipple. This grip allows you to apply pressure without affecting the nipple directly.
When your baby is no longer sucking deeply and rhythmically, gently squeeze and compress your breast. Make sure you are squeezing deep in the breast tissue, away from the nipple. This compression should stimulate your baby to start swallowing milk again. Keep the pressure until your baby stops sucking and swallowing.
Once your baby stops, release the pressure of your hand on the breast. Your baby may stop sucking when you release the pressure, but will start again once milk begins to flow. If your baby stops sucking for several minutes, try breast compression again to encourage milk flow.
Allow your baby to come off the breast when they are no longer sucking effectively, even with breast compression. Repeat the process on the other breast to ensure both breasts are effectively emptied and stimulated.
As breastfeeding or milk supply improves, you may find that compression is no longer necessary. This technique can be gradually phased out as your baby's sucking and swallowing patterns become more efficient.
Breast compression is a simple yet powerful tool that can enhance the breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your baby receives the nourishment they need while also maintaining your own comfort and health.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Compression
What is breast compression, and why is it used?
Breast compression is a technique to help release and maintain the flow of breastmilk during breastfeeding. It is used when a baby is not sucking effectively or swallowing milk, aiding in continued feeding. This method benefits both mother and baby by addressing issues like sore nipples, low milk supply, blocked ducts, poor weight gain, and low muscle tone.
How do I perform breast compression correctly?
Ensure your baby is latched properly. Place your hand around your breast with your thumb on top and fingers underneath, avoiding the nipple. When your baby stops sucking deeply, gently squeeze and compress the breast, applying pressure deep in the tissue. This should encourage swallowing. Maintain the pressure until your baby stops sucking, then release and repeat if needed.
When should I use breast compression?
Use breast compression when your baby is sucking but not swallowing effectively. It is especially helpful for babies with poor weight gain, low muscle tone, or those who are premature or unwell. Mothers can also use it to relieve sore nipples, increase milk supply, and address blocked ducts or mastitis.
Can breast compression help with sore nipples?
Yes, breast compression can alleviate sore nipples by ensuring a continuous flow of milk, reducing the need for the baby to suck harder. This prevents engorgement and blockages that can contribute to nipple pain. If you are looking to relieve pain, check out our Midwives Own Brand pregnancy & postpartum essentials, offering a curated collection of products for new and expecting mothers.
Is breast compression necessary for all breastfeeding mothers?
No, breast compression is not necessary for all mothers. It is useful for those facing challenges like low milk supply or a baby with poor weight gain. As breastfeeding improves and the baby's feeding becomes more efficient, the need for breast compression typically decreases.
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