Massage Therapy For Breast Health

Yes, you can!
Treatment techniques and areas will be modified based on your comfort, medical history, and current condition.

We can also discuss supportive self-care strategies and what to expect after surgery—especially if this hasn't been covered in your hospital care.

You are welcome to book a session before surgery.

We can help prepare your tissues and nervous system, and offer education on what to expect post-operatively.

That depends on how your surgery went and how you're healing.

In many cases, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is beneficial early on to help reduce swelling and support healing.

However, the timing also depends on:

• The extent of the surgery (e.g., lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstruction)

• Whether drains are in place

• Any complications (e.g., infections or delayed healing)

It’s essential to get clearance from your surgeon before receiving hands-on treatment.
Generally:

• Early phase (before stitches are out): we may support you with MLD to reduce swelling around the incision site.

• Once stitches are removed and the incision is fully closed: gentle massage around or over the area may begin (with your consent and physician's approval).

• After ~6 weeks: most people tolerate a bit more pressure, depending on the type of surgery and healing progress.

You are welcome to book a FREE Resonance Check (Discovery Call) to discuss what support is best for your stage of recovery.

Yes, you can—if you feel well enough to attend a session.
However, the radiated area is often very sensitive. We will modify:

• Your positioning on the table

• The techniques we use

• The areas we treat

The goal is always comfort, safety, and gentle support!

In most cases, yes!
Massage can help ease fatigue, anxiety, and body tension. Most chemotherapy drugs do not pose a risk to practitioners through touch.

However:

• If you have a port, we avoid the area and adjust your positioning.

• It's always best to consult with your oncologist about massage between treatments to ensure it aligns with your care plan.

That depends on the type of lump.
If the lump is not diagnosed, it's important to consult your doctor first before receiving massage. Massage will look different depending on whether the lump is:

• A benign cyst

• A malignant tumor

• plugged duct or cystocele

We’ll adapt treatment accordingly, but safety and informed care come first.

Yes, you can!

Breast massage during pregnancy can help relieve soreness and support overall breast health as your body changes.

You may also want to consider booking an education and self-care session for lactation before your baby arrives. This can be a valuable opportunity to learn helpful techniques in advance—so you’re better prepared to care for yourself during the early postpartum period, when time and energy are often limited.

You’re welcome to book a session anytime—you don’t need to be in pain or discomfort to benefit from lactation massage. It can be a proactive and supportive part of your postpartum care.

You might also consider our virtual self-care session as a convenient option. It saves commute time and empowers you to implement effective self-care practices from the comfort of your home.

Acute mastitis is NOT within the scope of practice for massage therapists in Ontario.
If you have fever, redness, pain, and swelling in your breast, please seek immediate medical care from your doctor, midwife, or lactation consultant.

Once your condition is treated and stable, we can work together to support breast health and prevent recurrence with massage therapy.

For those exploring complementary options, Chinese Medicine may also provide additional support.

This is a nuanced issue.

• If the supply issue is caused by plugged ducts or poor drainage, breast massage may help temporarily improve milk flow.

• However, if the issue is related to insufficient milk production, massage therapy cannot directly resolve that.

You may notice a slight, short-term increase in milk volume after massage—but it’s not a reliable method to boost supply long-term.

For persistent low milk supply, we recommend:

• Working with a Lactation Consultant, and/or

• Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine to support your overall health and hormonal balance.

Not directly. Massage doesn't regulate how much milk your body makes.

However, it can help:

• Prevent plugged ducts and mastitis

• Manage engorgement-related discomfort

• Improve tissue mobility and lymphatic flow

For managing oversupply, it's best to consult with a Lactation Consultant or consider Chinese Medicine to support hormonal balance.

Yes—breast massage can be very helpful during the weaning process. Many people experience discomfort, breast pain, or issues like plugged ducts and even mastitis while transitioning. Gentle, therapeutic massage can support comfort and help ease or prevent these challenges.

However, please note that breast massage does not reduce or stop milk production.