KM-NICU-Breastfeeding-Book-English-Final

Hand Expression Every mom needs to learn how to hand express their milk. Even if you have a pump, it may stop working or

1. Make a “C” with your thumb and index finger, then place them 2-3 inches apart on the breast-centering the nipple between your fingers (resting position). 2. Push into the breast and back toward your chest wall. 3. Bring your fingers together without sliding them along the skin. This should release milk. 4. Return to resting position and repeat. It may take several minutes to begin milk flow. 5. Rotate the placement of your fingers and thumb around your breast, repeating steps 1-4. This will help empty all areas of the breast. When milk flow slows down, switch to your other breast. Expressing your milk gets easier with practice. Don’t be discouraged if you can only express a small amount the first few times. The more comfortable you become doing this, the more milk you will be able to express. Remember, for your baby, every drop counts.

you may forget a part of the pump at home. Use a clean container with a wide opening to collect your milk. Wash your hands. Place a warm washcloth on your breast to help your milk flow. Massage your breast to help increase the amount of milk you express. Do this by placing one hand under your breast for support. Apply gentle pressure, using a circular motion with your other hand. Massage from several starting points, always working from the chest toward the nipple. Repeat on the other breast. Hold the clean container near your breast.