Expressing Breast Milk

You may need to express breast milk if:

  • your breasts are too hard for your baby to latch on
  • you want to give your baby breast milk when you are away from your baby
  • you need to increase your breast milk supply

How to express breast milk by hand

1.
wash your hand
Wash your hands with soap and water. 		2.
massage_2
If your baby is healthy use a clean glass or hard plastic container to express your breast milk into. "Clean" means to wash in hot soapy water, rinse well with hot water and leave to air dry. 		3.
clean glass
Place a warm towel on your breast for a few minutes. Then gently massage your breast towards the nipple. You may also gently roll your nipple between your thumb and finger until the milk leaks.
4.
place your thumb
Place your thumb and first 2 fingers about 1-1½ inches away from your nipple, or along the edge of the dark area. 		5.
push your thumb
Push your thumb and 2 fingers straight back toward your chest. 		6.
roll your thumb
Roll your thumb and 2 fingers together.
  • Repeat steps 4, 5 and 6 until the flow of milk slows down then switch to the other breast.
  • Switch breasts a few more times whenever the flow of milk slows down. Be sure to move your thumb and 2 fingers along all areas around your nipple.
  • Many mothers find it easier to express in the morning, when their breasts feel fullest or after breastfeeding the baby.
  • You may only get a few drops when first learning to express. Expressing breast milk will get better and easier with practise.

Last updated on October 2011