Support circulation, reduce swelling, and promote healing

Lymphatic breast massage is a gentle, light-touch technique that supports the movement of lymph fluid. It differs from deeper breast massage used to break up plugs. This kind of massage helps:

• Reduce swelling and inflammation (especially in mastitis)
• Support immune function
• Aid in milk flow and healing

Important Notes:
• This massage should not hurt—use very light pressure (like petting a cat).
• Do not massage directly over an open wound, cracked nipple, or abscess.
• If you have a fever or infection, do this gently alongside medical care.

When to Use It:
• At the first sign of engorgement, swelling, or tenderness
• As daily self-care during breastfeeding
• After plugged ducts or mastitis to support healing
• If experiencing underarm swelling or fullness

How to Perform Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Step 1: Set Up
• Get comfortable—in a warm room, sitting or lying down
• Remove your bra and any tight clothing
• Begin with relaxing breaths to help your body release tension

Step 2: Clear the Exit Path
Gently stimulate the lymph nodes under the collarbone and armpits. This “opens the drains” so fluid can move out of the breast tissue.

Do this on both sides:
• Use feather-light pressure to stroke:
• From just above the breast up toward the collarbone
• From outer upper breast toward the armpit
• From under the breast up and around to armpit or collarbone

Repeat each stroke 5–10 times

Step 3: Gentle Breast Strokes
Use flat fingers or the palm to stroke the breast gently, always toward the lymph nodes:

• Stroke from the nipple outward (not inward!)
• Stroke from underneath the breast up and out to armpit
• Stroke from between the breasts out toward the side of the chest
• If there’s swelling near the underarm, gently stroke down the side of the chest

Again, light pressure—think: brushing crumbs off a table.

Step 4: Neck and Underarm Drainage (optional)

If you’re feeling swollen around the neck or armpit use fingertips to gently stroke:
• Down the sides of the neck toward the collarbone
• From the back of the armpit forward

Bonus: Combine with Moist Heat or Shower

• Do this massage in a warm shower
• Or apply a warm compress beforehand
• Follow with cold compress after if inflammation is present

You Can Also Try:

• Manual lymphatic drainage by a trained massage therapist (postpartum-friendly)
• Rebounding (light bouncing on exercise ball or trampoline)
• Deep breathing + hydration to support lymph flow
• Wearing loose bras/clothing to avoid pressure on lymph pathways