Changes begin in the breasts almost as soon as you conceive. In fact, many women will say that the way their breasts felt was their first clue that they were pregnant. During pregnancy, more estrogen and progesterone are produced to keep the pregnancy going. These hormones also help prepare the breasts for nursing. Along the way, they can become sore, tender or tingly.
Most women find breast tenderness to be at its most sensitive in early pregnancy. It can get so uncomfortable that even having the fabric of your shirt touch them can be difficult. They may feel heavier than you are used to, or they may be more sensitive to movement if you go jogging or for a brisk walk. You may find that the nipples become more noticeable and that the areolas become darker. A map of blue veins makes their appearance over your chest, supplying more blood to the breasts to help them ready for breastfeeding. Your breasts will get a bit larger throughout pregnancy. The hormones will make the milk ducts grow and get ready to feed your baby. The glandular tissue begins to expand as well.
You may notice that your breasts become itchy as the skin stretches to accommodate the new growth. You may also develop small stretch marks. Many women may notice a little leaking from their breasts by mid-pregnancy. This is colostrum. Colostrum is the baby’s first milk. It is thick, yellow and sticky. You may notice it leaks on its own, or during intimate contact. If you don’t leak milk during pregnancy, that is also perfectly normal. It is no reflection on your ability to produce milk. Some women don’t produce much colostrum until after the baby is born.
As your pregnancy continues, the tenderness may decrease a little bit. The growth will continue throughout pregnancy. The end result will depend on heredity, how much weight you gain during pregnancy and how large your breasts were to begin with. It is not uncommon to change two or three bra sizes, although this does not happen to everyone.
The best thing you can do is to find a good support bra to get you through pregnancy. If they feel tight, you probably need to get a larger size. Don’t wear underwires. The best results will come if you take the time to consult with a lingerie professional in a maternity shop. If you can’t do this, measure yourself carefully. Be sure you measure around the fullest area of your breast to get the right cup size, and just beneath the arms for the chest size. Don’t be surprised if you need to do this again before the baby is born. Breast pads can help absorb any leaking. This will protect your clothes and will prevent embarrassment if you are out in public.
Sleep bras can help you get needed support at night. A sleep bra is usually lightweight cotton. They can be found at maternity stores and at online maternity shops. If you exercise regularly, you will want a good sports bra that will offer sturdy support.
Talk with your care provider if you have any concerns about your breast changes or lack of breast changes.
Breast Changes During Pregnancy