The practice of manually squeezing the breast while using a pump, often called “hands-on pumping,” is common for those who express milk. This technique is rooted in the complex physiology of milk production and removal. While a breast pump provides necessary suction, adding manual compression helps overcome mechanical limitations inherent in the pumping process. This combination of suction and gentle pressure is a highly effective method for increasing milk output and ensuring the breast is fully drained.
Understanding Milk Ejection and Pump Limitations
Milk is made in small sacs called alveoli and travels through a network of ducts toward the nipple. Milk flow relies on the milk ejection reflex, or “let-down,” triggered by the hormone oxytocin. This hormone causes muscle cells around the alveoli to contract, pushing milk into the ducts for removal.
A mechanical breast pump primarily uses suction, mimicking only one component of an infant’s feeding action. An infant’s suckling involves a sophisticated combination of vacuum pressure and rhythmic compression of the breast tissue. Because pumps rely solely on suction, they often cannot effectively clear all the milk from the extensive duct system. This limitation is why many people find their breasts still feel full after a standard pumping session, requiring more than just a vacuum for complete milk removal.
How Compression Maximizes Milk Removal
Adding compression directly addresses the mechanical shortcomings of the pump. The manual squeeze provides external, multidirectional pressure, physically helping to push milk forward through the ducts. This action ensures a more complete and efficient emptying of the milk storage areas. Studies have shown that using hands-on pumping can increase the total volume of milk expressed.
This technique is important for mobilizing milk that is higher in fat, often referred to as hindmilk. As pumping progresses, the fat content naturally increases, and this thicker, stickier milk tends to adhere to the duct walls. Compression provides the necessary force to push this higher-fat milk out, resulting in milk with greater caloric content and better drainage. Complete milk removal signals the body to produce milk faster, supporting a stronger supply.
Effective Hands-On Pumping Technique
To perform this technique effectively, begin with gentle breast massage before or at the start of your pumping session to encourage the initial let-down. Once milk is flowing steadily, start the compression phase. Using a hands-free pumping bra is beneficial, as it leaves both hands free to work.
Using a C-shape grip, place your hand around the breast, avoiding the area directly beneath the pump flange. Gently compress the breast tissue, moving your hand from the outer edges inward toward the nipple. The compression should be firm but comfortable, without causing pain or rough kneading.
Coordinate the squeeze with the pump’s suction cycle, applying pressure as the pump pulls and releasing as it rests. Continue to massage and compress, paying attention to any areas that feel full or lumpy, until the flow of milk slows to a trickle. This combination maximizes milk yield and results in a shorter, more efficient pumping session.