How To Do Dangle Feeding (Step by Step!)
The dangle feeding position is one that you probably won’t do on a regular basis, but if you’re dealing with a plugged duct, or mastitis, it can really come in handy!
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What is Dangle Feeding?
Dangle feeding is a position you get into during breastfeeding (or pumping!) that allows gravity to help move the clogged milk out.
How to Do The Dangle Feeding Position:
Lay your baby on their back, on a flat, comfortable surface
Get on all fours or lean over your baby, offering your breast
If possible, angle your baby’s nose or chin so it’s in line with the area where your clog is
Allow your baby to nurse
You can use pillows to support your body
Sometimes you have to try dangle feeding a few times for it to work, but it’s a very powerful tool, and some parents report that this was the best way for them to release a clog in their breast.
Dangle Feeding Video
Bonus Dangle Feeding Tips To Remove A Clogged Duct
It’s important to understand that what is happening in your breast is that milk is literally stuck in your breast!
The part of your breast that feels sore or that has developed a little lump is where this “stuck milk” likely is. So as you’re breastfeeding (or pumping), it can be very helpful to massage that area with your free hand. Think of it as massaging to break up the congealed milk, and aim to get that milk out and flowing as you breastfeed or pump.
Usually managing a clog takes more than one technique, though. In addition to dangle nursing, there are a couple more things to keep in mind as you work to release a plug or a clog.
Consider massaging the breast as you dangle feed
Try applying a warm compress while breastfeeding. Heat and steam can be very useful when it comes to releasing a clog. The heat can also serve to break the clog up and can get your milk flowing. (We love THESE hot packs that are built specifically for breasts, they’re microwaveable and reusable)
Consider always starting with the clogged breast when you breastfeed. Your baby is more apt to suck vigorously as the beginning of the feed, and that’s exactly what you want them to do when you are experiencing a clog, whether you are dangle feeding or breastfeeding in a more traditional position.
While in the shower, massage your breast, and do some hand expression. Again, use gravity here, and consider dangling your breast downward while massaging and expressing. If possible, have someone bring your baby to you to nurse when you’ve just completed your shower. Nursing while you’re warmed up after your shower can help the milk flow and get the clog unclogged.
Dangle Pumping (or Dangle “Expressing”)
Expressing your milk by hand can also be very helpful here, and you can do this in a dangle nursing position! Set yourself up with a towel under your breast to catch any leaking milk, dangle your breast downward, and then begin massaging the area where the clog is, moving around and down. You can then gently squeeze, either where the clog is, or at the nipple to express your milk out.
Dangle Feeding and Mastitis
WARNING: Sometimes clogs can become infected. If your clog is warm to the touch, the skin is reddened or streaked, and you are starting to develop a fever or have flu-like symptoms, you may be experiencing mastitis, which is a breast infection. Sometimes mastitis clears on its own when the clogged area is released, but often you will need an antibiotic.
If your fever/flu symptoms last more than a day or so, call your healthcare provider for guidance and a possible antibiotic prescription.
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Related Articles:
15 Ways To Naturally Clear A Plugged Duct
How To Prevent Clogged Milk Ducts