Yes, it is generally OK and can even be beneficial to squeeze your breast while breastfeeding. This technique is often referred to as breast compression.
What is Breast Compression?
Breast compression involves gently squeezing your breast during a breastfeeding or pumping session. The purpose of breast compression is to increase the flow of milk from the breast.
When Can Breast Compression Be Useful?
Based on expert information, breast compressions can be a helpful tool in specific situations to aid breastfeeding. This technique is particularly noted as useful for:
- Babies with poor weight gain: Increased milk flow can help ensure the baby gets enough calories during a feeding.
- Babies who feed very frequently: Enhancing milk transfer might help satisfy the baby more efficiently.
- Babies who take a long time at the breast: If a feeding session consistently lasts longer than 45 minutes, breast compression can potentially speed up the process by providing a stronger milk flow.
Using breast compression can help the baby get more milk per suck, which can be especially helpful when the baby is sleepy at the breast or is not actively sucking.
How to Perform Breast Compression (General Guidance)
While it's best to get personalized guidance from a lactation consultant, a general idea of how to perform breast compression includes:
- Support your breast with one hand.
- Wait until your baby's sucking slows down or stops actively swallowing.
- Gently squeeze your breast (like holding a sandwich) away from the nipple, maintaining the pressure while the baby is actively sucking and swallowing.
- Release the pressure when the baby's sucking slows down again.
- You can rotate your hand position around the breast to compress different areas and encourage milk flow.
Remember, the goal is to help the milk flow, not to cause pain or discomfort. If you have concerns about your baby's feeding or weight gain, consult with a healthcare provider or a certified lactation consultant.
