What Changes Can Happen to Your Breasts During Pregnancy?

Size isn’t the only thing about your breasts that’s affected while you’re pregnant.

Pregnancy is a transformative journey for the human body, marked by a series of profound changes as it nurtures the growing baby or babies within. These changes encompass various aspects, including body weight fluctuations, alterations in hair, skin, and nails, swelling of hands and feet, and, notably, breast changes. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the specific transformations that breasts undergo during pregnancy and their potential long-term implications.

Breast Sagging (Ptosis) During Pregnancy

Traditionally, it was believed that breastfeeding was the primary culprit behind breast sagging, medically referred to as ptosis. However, a groundbreaking October 2021 study published in the SAS Journal of Surgery challenges this assumption. The study indicates that pregnancies and significant weight fluctuations can significantly impact breast ptosis. During pregnancy, the skin’s elasticity and the ligamentous support for the breasts can become attenuated, leading to ptosis. This suggests that breast growth during pregnancy, not just breastfeeding, contributes to sagging.

Dr. Fahimeh Sasan, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City, explains that when you gain weight during pregnancy, ligaments in your breasts undergo stretching, similar to what occurs in the abdominal region. While genetics play a role in how your breasts change, being mindful of your weight gain and loss can potentially mitigate sagging. For some individuals, surgical options may also be considered to address breast ptosis.

Stretch Marks (Striae)

Stretch marks, also known as striae, are a common occurrence during pregnancy. According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), they affect anywhere from 43% to 88% of pregnant individuals. Stretch marks result from the extensive stretching of the skin that takes place during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Dr. Sasan underscores that genetics play a significant role in determining whether you’ll develop stretch marks. If your mother or sister did not experience stretch marks during their pregnancies, there’s a good chance you won’t either. However, the opposite holds true as well, indicating that heredity can predispose some individuals to stretch marks.

It’s essential to note that many remedies, such as cocoa butter, almond or olive oil, and vitamin E, have not proven to be highly effective in preventing stretch marks, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). If you have concerns about the appearance of your stretch marks, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before attempting any interventions during pregnancy.

Breast Size and Symmetry Changes

During pregnancy, it’s entirely normal for breasts to undergo changes in size and fullness. This transformation is primarily attributed to the growth of the milk duct system and the development of milk-producing glands called lobules. As these structures expand, it can lead to breast and nipple swelling, a common occurrence during pregnancy, as explained by Healthy Children, a resource from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

However, it’s important to note that this change doesn’t necessarily translate to perfect symmetry. Breasts can differ in size during pregnancy, a phenomenon referred to as breast asymmetry. The extent of this asymmetry varies from person to person, as documented in a study published in the American Journal of Human Biology in March 2015.

For individuals bothered by size discrepancies, padded bras with removable pads can offer a practical solution to even out the appearance. Additionally, cosmetic surgery, such as breast reduction or augmentation, may be considered in the future to address asymmetry.

Leakage

Around the end of the second trimester, your breasts begin to develop the capacity to produce milk. This transition may lead to breast leakage, which is typically a response to your body’s preparation for the baby’s arrival. The fluid that you might notice leaking from your breasts is colostrum—the initial milk produced for newborns, as outlined by the Office on Women’s Health (OWH). Colostrum is initially thick and yellowish but gradually transitions in color as your body prepares for the production of mature breast milk.

It’s important to note that while breast leakage is generally normal and expected, any occurrence of bloody discharge from the breasts during pregnancy should prompt immediate medical attention to rule out any underlying serious conditions.

Other Breast Changes

In addition to the aforementioned changes, several other breast-related transformations can occur during pregnancy:

1. Darkening of the Areolas: The skin surrounding the nipples, known as the areolas, typically darkens during the first trimester of pregnancy, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

2. Increased Blood Vessel Visibility: Blood vessels in the chest area may become more noticeable during pregnancy.

3. Breast and Nipple Soreness: As the milk duct system and milk glands develop, breast soreness, as well as nipple soreness and tingling, can be experienced.

Post-Pregnancy Breast Changes

Breast changes don’t end with pregnancy; they continue during the post-pregnancy phase, especially if you are breastfeeding. For breastfeeding individuals, stimuli such as the baby’s touch or scent can trigger the let-down reflex. This reflex, governed by the hormone oxytocin, causes milk to flow, as noted by the NLM. Other unusual stimuli, including the scent of a newborn baby, running water, or sexual activity, can also lead to the leakage of breast milk.

With each pregnancy and breastfeeding experience, breast density tends to decrease. As a result, some individuals may end up with asymmetrical breasts after nursing their children. Dr. Sasan explains that the breast preferred by the baby naturally stretches out, including the nipple, which may appear larger or elongated even after weaning.

It’s crucial to understand that breasts may or may not revert to their pre-pregnancy size and shape. The outcome depends on various factors, including genetics, whether you’ve retained some of the baby weight, and your age. For some women, their breasts remain large, while others may experience a reduction in breast size. This variation highlights the unique nature of each woman’s post-pregnancy breast changes.

A Comprehensive Look at Breast Changes During and After Pregnancy

In conclusion, the journey of pregnancy brings about a multitude of changes, and breast changes are a significant part of this transformative process. These changes encompass breast sagging, stretch marks, alterations in size and symmetry, leakage, and various other alterations that prepare the body for the arrival of a baby. While genetics play a vital role in determining the extent of these changes, the experience is highly individualized.

It’s important to recognize that these transformations are natural and part of the incredible journey of motherhood. However, if you have concerns about any of these changes or their long-term impact, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and address any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring that you have the information and support you need throughout your pregnancy and beyond.