Breast massage could have several health benefits, such as stimulating blood flow and helping with breastfeeding, and the detection of lumps in the breast. In this article, we discuss some possible benefits of breast massage and we describe techniques for self-massage.
Possible benefits - Stimulating blood flow is a potential benefit of breast massage. The breasts contain mammary glands that produce milk, as well as a complex network of lobes, ducts, blood vessels, fatty and fibrous tissues, and lymphatic tubes. Breast massage may help keep the breasts healthy. Self massage can also detect lumps in the breast.
Breast cancer Breast massages may help detect breast cancer, possibly as a form of self-examination. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists report that 71% of breast cancer cases in women under 50 are found during breast self-examinations. Cancer may feel like a hard lump or thickened tissue in the breast, and it may change breast size or shape. Early diagnosis of breast cancer can lead to a better outcome — it provides more opportunity for treatment before the cancer spreads far. When breast cancer is localised, most people have a chance of living for at least 5 years after the initial diagnosis. It is also important to keep in mind that breast lumps are unlikely to be breast cancer. In most cases, the cause of these lumps is relatively benign, such as a cyst or infection.
Breastfeeding Breast massage may help reduce pain that can occur when milk builds up within the breast. A 2015 study, for example, found that all 42 breastfeeding participants reported a reduction in breast and nipple pain following therapeutic breast massage. Some types of massage may be more effective than others. A 2012 study compared the effects of Oketani massage with those of regular breast massage on 47 breastfeeding women. Oketani is a method that focuses on the tissues connecting the chest muscles to the breast. The participants who received Oketani massage reported less breast pain than those who received regular massage. Also, breast massages may help prevent blockages in the milk ducts and otherwise improve the flow of milk.
Toxins The lymphatic system is a network of vessels that collect and filter excess fluid waste around the body. These vessels in the breasts carry fluids to the lymph nodes near the breastbone, collarbone, or underarm. Damage to the lymphatic system can cause fluid and waste to build up. This buildup can lead to swelling, called lymphedema. Breast massage may help stimulate the lymph vessels and reduce the risk of lymphedema in the arms and chest. However, the effect is not confirmed. A more recent from 2017, found some evidence that manual stimulation was effective. It used MRI scans to show that the stimulation had helped move excess lymph fluid. How to do it Breast massage techniques vary, depending on their intended use:
Lactation
Place four fingers on the top and bottom of one breast.
Apply gentle pressure while moving the fingers of both hands in smooth, circular motions.
Position the fingers on each side of the same breast and continue to massage in a circular pattern.
Repeat on the other breast.
Cancer detection
Stand in front of a mirror and look for any changes in the colour, shape, size, or texture of the breast.
Place one hand behind the head, so that the elbow points out to the side.
Massage the breast using the first three fingers of the opposite hand.
Apply gentle pressure and massage in a circular motion.
Make sure to massage the entire breast — from the collarbone to the top of the abdomen and toward the armpit.
Repeat on the other breast.
A person can perform a breast massage while standing up or lying down. It may be most comfortable to do so in the shower. See a doctor if there are any possible indications of cancer, such as:
new lumps or bumps on or around the breasts
swelling
skin changes, including redness, dimpling, or flaking
discharge other than breast milk
swollen lymph nodes under the arm or collarbone
Lymph node drainage
Place one hand on top of the breast on the opposite side of the body, so that the fingertips go into the armpit and the palm rests on the chest.
Squeeze the hand over the breast in a pumping motion.
Using the same pumping motion, slowly move the hand down toward the nipple.
Massage around the outside, bottom, and inner areas of the breast.
Repeat on the other breast.
Risks Breast massages are generally safe. However, anyone who has breast cancer or who has had recent surgery should take care when massaging near a lump or scar. A doctor can provide guidance, which may be especially helpful for people under-going treatment for a breast-related health condition.
NB - This article was lifted from the following medical website:
NB - Photograph by Victoria S
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