I've had numerous requests from Lactnetters who have posted me privately
about the breast massage I do.  I've found it very helpful with plugged
ducts, helping sleepy babies to put on weight and most importantly for
the relief of engorgement.  I haven't had any formal training in massage
but started experimenting on myself when I breastfed my daughters.

1.  Put on some relaxing music - light classical, new age, nature sounds
etc.
2.  Get the mom comfortable.  Put a waterproof pad over the armchair or
sofa and then put a cotton sheet over that.  Have a bunch of handtowels
ready,
3.  Have the mom either lay down or sit up - which ever makes her feel
more comfortable.  If she is sitting up, put her feet up on a foot
stool.  Have her place a large wrap or towel around her shoulders so she
won't get chilled.  Place another towel on her lap to absorb the milk.
4.  4 drops of Bach Rescue Remedy is helpful if she is uptight.
5.  Apply warm, steamy compresses using towels on the mother's breast.
You can also add a drop or two of aromatic oil.  Don't forget to wrap
the towel under the arm and under the breast.
6.  Place some nice massage oil (almond oil w/ lavender is good) in
your  hands.  Warm it up in your palsms.  I
personally favor Clarin's Relax Massage Oil.  Even olive oil will do.
Don't like baby oil.
7.  Start under the arm.  Gently rub a little of the oil on the skin.
Work with the tips of your fingers or the pads of the thumb.  Massage a
small area in little circles.  Work down towards the areola.
8.  Think of the breast like a clock.  Start with 12:00 and procede
around the breast clockwise.  Work gently and gradually apply pressure
on a stubborn area.  Work any plugs out.
9.  The milk will start to flow - sometimes drip or spray if the mom has
a good MER.
10.  I teach this technique to mothers who have repeat breast problems.


This massage is not for those who are faint-hearted.  It can be messy.
Sometimes the milk looks like strands of spaghetti when it comes out.
It is also time consuming.  The mothers generally feel discomfort at
first, but feel great afterwards.

I don't know the legalities of doing massage in the States.  Here in
Israel we don't have as many problems with lawsuits.

Susan Nachman-Srebrnik, LC
Israel