How to Hand Express Breast Milk

Mothers often incorrectly assume they need a breast pump to express their breast milk. Properly done, hand expression can be very effective - and there are no parts to clean afterward!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Clean bowl
• Picture of your baby or a piece of your baby's clothing

1. Gently massage each breast to make the milk flow more easily. Stroke down gently toward the nipple.
2. Place your thumb flat against the dark skin around your nipple (areola) and cup the rest of your hand under your breast, with the lower fingers against the ribs. Gently squeeze your thumb and forefinger together, while at the same time pressing your hand back and in towards your breast.
3. Express your milk until no more comes out. Then rotate your fingers to another place on the dark area (areola) and repeat. Switch to your other breast when the flow of milk slows down.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to start with clean hands!
• Looking at a picture of your baby or touching and smelling a piece of your baby's clothing may help your milk flow better.
• If you are working outside the home, take these items to work with you.