Place your index finger (or your pinky for better precision) at the inner corner of your baby’s eye, right next to the bridge of their nose. You are looking for the medial canthus —the small bump where the upper and lower eyelids meet.
There is nothing quite as disarming as looking into your newborn’s eyes. They are vast, curious, and clear. But sometimes, those beautiful eyes tell a different story—one written in crusty yellow discharge, persistent tears that spill down the cheek, or sticky lashes glued together after a nap. how to massage infant tear duct
Massage is the key. Gentle, precise pressure can pop that membrane open like a tiny bubble, allowing tears to flow freely. The specific technique used for this is called the Crigler maneuver . It sounds clinical, but it is simply a gentle, guided squeeze. Here is how to do it safely and effectively. Place your index finger (or your pinky for
This sticky, teary phase is temporary. One morning, you’ll wipe away a crusty eye and realize—the goop didn’t come back. You’ll notice a clear, bright eye looking back at you, tear-free. And you’ll know that your gentle, consistent touch helped open the door. They are vast, curious, and clear
This is the number one question parents ask. You need more pressure than you think, but less than you fear. A good gauge: You should be able to press firmly enough to feel the bony ridge of the nose move slightly. If you wouldn't feel comfortable pressing on your own closed eye, lighten up.
In many newborns, the very bottom of that “drainpipe” is still sealed by a thin, residual membrane that didn’t fully open before birth. The tears have nowhere to go, so they back up, pool in the eye, and eventually turn into the goopy discharge you are wiping away.
You don’t need any special equipment. Just wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Keep your fingernails short and smooth. Have a few clean, soft cotton balls or gauze pads nearby.