A breast massage is the application of therapeutic touch near or around the breasts. It may include working with all breast tissue, aureolas, nipples, lymphatic tissues, and other tissue around the ribcage, chest, shoulder & neck areas. Breast massage can be done through clothing or a sheet, or using direct skin contact with or without oil.

By increasing lymphatic & blood circulation, & freeing connective tissue layers, Breast Massage can reduce symptoms associated with conditions such as breast pain, congestion, pre-menstrual swelling, and fibrocystic breasts. See all benefits below.

Therapeutic breast massage offers a range of potential benefits for both physical and emotional well-being. While it should always be done gently and with the guidance of a trained professional, here are some of the potential benefits:

1. Improved Circulation

Breast tissue, like any other part of the body, relies on proper blood circulation to stay healthy. Therapeutic massage can enhance blood flow, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the cells, improving overall tissue health.

2. Lymphatic Drainage

The lymphatic system plays a key role in immune function and the removal of toxins. A gentle breast massage may help stimulate lymph flow, encouraging the drainage of waste products and reducing the risk of fluid buildup (lymphedema) in the breast area.

3. Reduced Pain and Discomfort

Breast massage can help alleviate tenderness and discomfort often associated with hormonal fluctuations (such as during menstruation or pregnancy). This can be especially helpful for conditions like fibrocystic breast changes or premenstrual breast pain (mastalgia).

4. Release of Tension

The chest area, including the pectoral muscles, can become tight due to stress, poor posture, or physical strain. A therapeutic breast massage can help release this tension, leading to improved posture and reduced muscle stiffness.

5. Promotion of Healthy Breast Tissue

Regular massage may help in the identification of lumps or changes in breast tissue, which could be important for early detection of conditions like fibrocystic breast changes or even breast cancer. However, massage is not a substitute for regular self-exams or mammograms.

6. Increased Relaxation and Stress Relief

Like other forms of massage, breast massage can have a relaxing effect on the body. The release of endorphins and reduction in stress hormones can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of well-being.

7. Hormonal Balance

Hormonal fluctuations are a common cause of breast tenderness and swelling, especially during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. Therapeutic massage can help improve hormonal balance by encouraging relaxation and reducing stress.

8. Breastfeeding Support

For breastfeeding mothers, gentle breast massage can help relieve issues such as clogged milk ducts, engorgement, and discomfort from breastfeeding. It may also help stimulate milk flow and ease the process of breastfeeding.

9. Enhanced Skin Health

Regular massage, combined with nourishing oils, can improve skin texture and tone in the breast area. It may help maintain skin elasticity and softness, particularly if combined with moisturizing oils.

10. Emotional and Psychological Benefits

Breast massage may help women feel more connected to their bodies, promoting body acceptance and awareness. It can also provide an opportunity to nurture oneself, which may be especially beneficial for women who have experienced trauma or those dealing with body image issues.

11. Increased Awareness of Breast Health

Regular therapeutic breast massage can improve body awareness, encouraging individuals to become more attuned to changes in the breast tissue. This can support early identification of any irregularities that may require medical attention.

12. Post-Surgery Recovery

For women who have undergone breast surgery (such as breast augmentation or mastectomy), therapeutic massage may help with post-surgical recovery, reducing scar tissue formation, improving lymphatic drainage, and promoting overall healing. Cancer: Breast massage is a wonderful way to prepare for breast surgery & to help with recovery. It can reduce scarring & increase mobility of breast tissue, leading to a decrease in long term post-surgical discomfort.

In addition, massaging through breast tissue can also address structures related to the ribcage, shoulder & neck that normally could not be accessed.

If you are interested, Jen will teach you how to do a breast self massage in under ten minutes anytime during a session (Handout provided by Aubrey Lesicki LMT of Breast Remedy Seattle). Self massage is a great tool for increasing circulation in the breast & potentially catching any changes in the tissue of the breast.

Jen wants all women to feels safe & heard, therefore she will get written permission from you in advance to receive breast massage and as to how you’d prefer to receive breast massage (through clothing/sheets or on bare skin etc.). You may change your mind at any time verbally during a session, no explanation will be required. Every session supports your current needs & comfort level.

Having the breasts massaged can be an emotionally charged experience for some. Jen has the training to support you during your session, if any trauma associated feelings arise through the unwinding of tissue in & around the breasts.

For a great article on Breast Massage, breast anatomy & ethics around performing breast massage, read Debra Curties R.M.T.’s “Breast Massage Deserves Attention”.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, feel free to Contact Jen.