What is one utility of hand expression for breastfeeding mothers?

Hand expression serves several important purposes for breastfeeding mothers, and one of its key utilities is indeed making the areola softer, which is particularly beneficial in cases of over-engorgement. When a mother experiences engorgement, her breast tissue can become overly full and firm, which may make it challenging for the baby to latch correctly. By using hand expression, mothers can relieve some of the pressure and soften the areola, creating a more favorable condition for the baby to latch effectively. This can enhance the breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby.

Additionally, softening the areola can facilitate better milk transfer, decreasing the likelihood of feeding difficulties that may stem from an improper latch due to hardness from engorgement. This practice can also help in the initial stages of breastfeeding as mothers learn to manage supply and ensure a comfortable feeding experience.

The other options do not accurately align with the primary benefits of hand expression. For instance, while many factors can contribute to colic, hand expression does not directly prevent it. Similarly, consistency of milk flow can be influenced by many other factors beyond hand expression, and the development of a strong bite reflex is more related to the baby's ability to latch and feed properly rather than to techniques of expressing milk.