Breast Changes

Your breasts begin changing early in pregnancy to prepare for feeding the baby. Fat builds up in the breasts, the number of milk glands increases, and the nipples and areolas (the pink or brownish skin around your nipples) enlarge and darken. Your breasts may become very sore.

Your breasts may grow in size and weight throughout the first three months. If they make you uncomfortable, switch to a good maternity bra. These bras have wide straps, more cup coverage and extra rows of hooks so you can adjust the band size as your baby grows. You also may want to buy a special sleep bra for nighttime support and, if you exercise, a supportive athletic bra.

By the end of your third trimester, your breasts may start leaking a thick, yellow fluid called colostrum. Colostrum contains proteins and antibodies that nourish your newborn until your breasts start making milk a few days after birth. Don’t worry if your breasts don’t leak — it doesn’t happen to all women.