Lymphatic Drainage for Menstrual Issues and Pregnancy
What is Lymph?
Lymph is a clear-to-white fluid composed primarily of white blood cells and chyle (a fluid from the intestines containing proteins and fats). Blood plasma—containing oxygen, proteins, glucose, and white blood cells—leaks out of the blood capillaries into the interstitial spaces (the areas around the cells). This fluid delivers oxygen and nutrients to the cells.
The lymphatic system collects large proteins, water, dead immune cells, cell debris, germs, and toxins. These are transported to the lymph nodes—structures that produce and house immune cells—where they are filtered and purified before being flushed out of the body. The system also returns proteins and fatty acids to the bloodstream, helps regulate fluid volume and pressure in tissues, and is essential for transporting immune cells and hormones throughout the body.
What is Lymph Drainage?
Lymph Drainage Therapy (LDT) is a specialized technique that targets the superficial lymph vessels using precise, gentle, and rhythmic pressure. This helps move lymph fluid through the vessels and nodes. Lymph flow can be hindered by factors such as trauma, surgery, burns, infections, stress, lack of exercise, or age. When this happens, stagnation can occur, impairing cellular function and contributing to various physical ailments.
LDT can increase lymph flow by up to 20 times and boost lymph node fluid absorption rates by up to 40%.
Menstrual Issues and Pregnancy
The breasts contain several layers of lymphatic vessels that drain through three main pathways:
From the sides of the breasts to the nodes behind the collarbones.
Through the chest to the axillary (armpit) nodes.
Deep within the breast, through the chest muscles, to the axillary nodes.
More than 75% of breast lymph drains through the axillary nodes. If lymph flow becomes blocked, fluid can back up and stagnate. When lymph remains in the vessels for extended periods, it can become too toxic for the body to process effectively.
If the lymphatic system is congested during menstruation, PMS symptoms such as breast swelling or tenderness, bloating, water retention, and skin breakouts (especially around the mouth and chin) may occur.
During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes, including hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, increased blood volume, and swelling in the extremities.
Benefits of Lymph Drainage for Pregnancy and Menstrual Concerns
LDT can help reduce:
Acne caused by hormonal changes during menstruation
Breast pain
Engorgement from excess milk production and lymph fluid buildup
Fibrocystic breasts
Inflammation or infection such as mastodynia or mastitis
Milk stasis (plugged duct, overfilled duct, or blocked nipple pore)
Nipple/areola fissures, ulceration, or bruising
Postpartum hormonal imbalances, which may help reduce depression and other symptoms
Sore nipples/breasts caused by hormonal changes
Nervous system stress, promoting better rest and relaxation
Stretch marks, by improving tissue health and appearance
Swelling in the breasts, hands, or feet
