Breast Changes During Pregnancy

Once of the earliest and most visible symptoms of pregnancy for most women is changes to the breasts. When a woman becomes pregnant, her breasts will respond by preparing for breastfeeding. While it may at times be uncomfortable, this is in fact a very natural process and is nothing to worry about.

Early in pregnancy, usually in the first trimester, many women experience increased sensitivity and even soreness of the breasts. They can be tender to the touch or you may have severe pain when you wear a bra. As a result, sex is often avoided in the first trimester but this is not necessary. You should be able to enjoy a full sex life; you just might want to avoid having anyone touch your nipples.

As your pregnancy progresses you many begin to notice changes to the nipples themselves. They may become larger and darker and you might notice small, goose bump or pimple like areas developing on the areola. These are called Montgomery’s tubercules and are completely normal.

With the beginning of the second trimester, the breasts usually begin to grow. This is the result of breast tissue preparing for nursing. You may need to purchase larger bras for comforts sake and you will probably want to be fitted for a nursing bra as well.

As your breasts prepare for nursing they will produce early stage milk known as colostrum. This first milk provides the baby with a dose of immunities and protection from jaundice as well the proper nutrients it needs to start life. In the later stages of pregnancy, the breasts can sometimes begin to leak colostrum. If the leaking becomes significant, you can use a breast pad to help you feel less self conscious.

Each pregnancy is unique and symptoms will vary from woman to woman, so if you aren’t experiencing all of these changes there is no need to panic. Some women will have only slight changes to the breast or even no changes at all. This does not mean that you are not equipped to breastfeed; there should be no reason why you can’t have a perfectly normal pregnancy and nursing experience. Your body will take care of itself, so just try and relax. Remember, you don’t have to look a certain way – mothers come in all shapes and sizes!