She found that her milk ejection reflex did not work as well as when her baby breastfed, so she also developed a method of massage and stimulation to assist this reflex. The key to the success of this technique is the combination of the method of expression and this massage. This technique is effective and should not cause problems. It can easily be learned by following this step by step guide. As with any manual skill, practice is important.
Many mothers are more comfortable with manual expression of breast milk because it is more natural.
Skin to skin contact is more stimulating than the feel of a plastic shield. So manual expression usually allows for an easier milk ejection reflex. It's ecologically superior. A portion of the milk continuously comes down the ducts and collects in the milk reservoirs. The areola varies in size from one woman to another.