Hand expression can take several attempts to learn, so practice before you go back to work. Before beginning hand expression, wash your hands and have a clean container ready for milk collection. Some women use hand expression because there is no need for special equipment, it helps ease engorgement, and it is very cost-effective.

To hand express milk, position your fingers and thumb in a “C” shape about one to two inches behind the nipple and areola. Avoid cupping the breast. Using firm pressure, push into the chest wall. For a large breast, lift the breast before pressing.

Roll thumb and fingers forward to compress and empty milk reservoirs. Be careful not to press hard or you may bruise the breast tissue. Do not pull or stretch the nipple.

Repeat this action to express the milk. Position, push, and roll. After the milk ducts have emptied, adjust your hand position to empty other ducts, moving in a counterclockwise direction.