How to sleep with mastectomy drains?

Question

My mother recently had a mastectomy and has drains in, and she's really struggling to sleep comfortably because of them. She's worried about pulling them out. How can she sleep safely and without pain?

Nirmala Sharma · Accepted Answer

To sleep comfortably, try staying propped up on three or four pillows so you are in a semi-sitting position. This prevents the fluid from pooling and reduces pressure on the chest. Eat light, warm vegetarian food to keep digestion easy while your mobility is low.

Rohan Malhotra · Answer

You absolutely must sleep on your back, there is no other way around this. Use a safety pin to clip the drain bulbs to your gown or use a special drain holder belt so they don't dangle or pull when you move. It is tough, but it's only for a few weeks.

Sonia Das · Answer

I am so scared of accidentally pulling the tubes out while I sleep, does anyone else feel this constant panic? I barely sleep because I'm afraid to move even an inch. How do you guys manage to relax your body?

Leela Viswanathan · Answer

During my recovery, sleeping in a recliner chair was the only way I could get any sleep without hurting my incisions or pulling the drains. I am no medical expert, but that recliner saved me during those first two weeks.

Aman Verma · Answer

I was looking this up for a relative who is having surgery next month. Many people online suggest using a mastectomy pillow, which goes under your arms to keep them away from your chest and protect the drains. It seems like a very practical tool to buy beforehand.

Vikram Singh · Answer

When my mother had her surgery, we set up a wedge pillow on her bed so she could sleep at a 45-degree angle. We also placed soft pillows under both her arms to keep her completely stable. It stopped her from rolling onto her sides and kept the drains safe.

How to sleep with mastectomy drains?

6 answers

Consult a internal medicine specialist

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