What are the benefits of massaging your breasts before giving birth?

　　Research has found that many pregnant women and their families are inevitably anxious when the due date is approaching, especially when it is beyond the due date. At this time, expectant mothers can make some preparations in advance. Massaging the breasts and stimulating the nipples is a good way to promote labor. When the nipples or areola of pregnant women are stimulated, it can promote the synthesis and secretion of oxytocin, which can cause Uterus contraction, starting labor； If uterine atony occurs during labor, this method can also strengthen uterine contractions and help complete labor as quickly as possible.

　　Wuhan city center Hospital Dr. Shen Ting from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology said that the method of massaging breasts is simple and you can do it at home. First of all, expectant mothers can soak the towel in warm water at 28℃-30℃ ； Next, while using a wet towel, massage both breasts alternately with your hands. ； Or use the index finger and middle finger to fix the breast, and the thumb pad to gently rub the nipple and areola. You can also use your fingers to gently pull the nipples on both sides and press the areola at the same time. When massaging, it is best to massage the breasts on both sides alternately, 15-20 minutes on each side, 2-3 times a day, for a total of about 1 hour each time. In addition, an electric breast pump or a professional massage bra can also achieve similar results. When using an electric breast pump for massage, pay attention to maintaining the negative pressure at 20mmHg, and alternate suction every 15 minutes or so. ； The massage bra needs to adjust the stimulation intensity according to the individual differences of pregnant women and can be used under the supervision of a doctor if necessary.

　　After massaging the breasts, if the abdomen appears bulging, hard or paroxysmal stomach ache , indicating that massage is effective. Massage should be continued at this time. Stopping at will may lead to a decrease in oxytocin secretion. If the uterine contractions are too strong at the beginning of the massage, you can pause and wait until the contractions subside before continuing. Generally, it will gradually return to normal after a few repetitions. In addition, some pregnant women are not sensitive to breast massage, especially those who are obese and have sunken nipples, and they need to persist for a long time to get results.

　　Finally, Shen Ting reminded that pregnant women who have not yet reached their due date must not perform breast massage easily to avoid breast cancer. premature birth . If you feel any discomfort during the massage, you should go to the hospital in time.