What Changes Happen to the Breasts During Pregnancy?

The dynamic nature of a woman's body during pregnancy is incredible and often unbelievable. As a woman's body is preparing to create a new life, one of the most notable changes that occur is related to the breasts. These changes in the breasts are both normal and expected. In this blog article, we will discuss the changes that take place to the breasts during pregnancy and what you can do to ensure your comfort throughout this time.

Breast Development During Early Pregnancy

One of the main changes that occur to the breasts during pregnancy is an increase in size. This is due to the increased amount of blood and milk ducts in the breasts. The breasts may also feel heavier and more sensitive to touch. Some women may also experience breast tenderness, which can be uncomfortable.

To help alleviate some of the discomfort, it is important to wear a supportive bra. Wearing a supportive bra can also help to prevent stretch marks. Another common change that occurs to the breasts during pregnancy is the development of Montgomery's tubercles. These are small, raised bumps on the areola that secrete a oily substance that helps to keep the nipples lubricated. The areola may also darken in color.

While the changes that occur to the breasts during pregnancy are mostly physical, there are also some emotional changes that can take place. Many women feel more self-conscious about their breasts during pregnancy and after childbirth.

This is due to the changes in size and appearance. Some women may also feel anxious about breast-feeding in public. However, it is important to remember that these changes are all normal and temporary. With time, your breasts will return to their pre-pregnancy state. We have listed down some pointers for you to check:

• Enlargement and growth: Your breasts will grow larger around weeks 6-8 and will continue to grow throughout your pregnancy. Expect to go up one or two bra cup sizes. As the skin stretches, your breasts may become itchy, and you may develop stretch marks.
• Hypersensitivity and tenderness
• Darkening of the nipples and areolas (the skin around your nipples) caused by hormones that affect skin pigmentation.
• Darkened veins, as well as your breasts (due to the increased blood supply to your breasts)
• Around month three, your breasts may begin to leak colostrum, a yellowish, thick substance. Some women may leak sooner than others.
• Nipples will protrude more, and the areolas and nipples will expand.
• There may also be small bumps on the areolas. Montgomery's tubercles are small oil-producing glands.