One of the earliest signs of pregnancy is the tender, heavy breasts that seem to grow consistently. You may even notice it before the missing period. It’s not an alarm to anything harmful to your body, but rather a sign that your body is preparing for the baby on the way. The breast changes are due to hormonal changes in the body, specifically estrogen and progesterone. As you read this blog, you will get to know what happens to your breasts throughout pregnancy.
What are the breast changes in each trimester?
First trimester (1-13 weeks)
During the first trimester, the hormonal changes are at their prime, and the body is going through the initial phases of prenatal health development. They may become hypersensitive and heavy. You may also notice that the nipples become darker. This happens due to the duct and gland growth phase, where as the blood flow increases, it makes the breast feel full and heavy.
Second trimester ( 13-27weeks )
The second trimester is where the hormonal levels stabilize. In this phase, the breast continues to grow and become fuller while the soreness subsides. This is also the time you may start to notice a yellowish, fluid leakage from the nipples, which is called colostrum. The leakage is normal, and it’s a sign that your body is preparing for the baby. This happens in this phase because your body has completed the first phase and is now focusing on the maturation of the baby and prepping for milk.
Third trimester (28-40 weeks)
As you go through the final trimester, they are at their largest and feel even heavier than in the second trimester. The soreness may probably return with frequent leaking because they are getting ready for labour. You may also notice that the veins become more pronounced due to increased blood flow. At this point, your breasts are full and ready for lactation; it can get uncomfortable.
How can you relieve yourself from the discomfort?
Buy a supportive bra: As you expect the baby, indeed, your body will be going through a lot of amazing changes, so make sure that you are wearing comfortable clothes. At this point, go for the right fit of bras; the material should be soft and breathable without underwire. You can also wear a bra to bed to relieve yourself from the discomfort.
Use warm or cool compressors.
You can apply a gentle warmth to relax muscles and also improve blood circulation, and the cold compressor can be used to relieve you from the tenderness and swelling.
Drink water to stay hydrated: Drinking water helps in managing the swelling and the retention. It also generally helps with overall health.
Start exercising: Incorporate some light exercises in your daily routine, such as prenatal yoga or walking. Exercises will help manage the blood circulation.
Conclusion
After gaining an understanding that the breast heaviness, the soreness and yellowish thick leakage are all normal and a great sign to show that your body is responding positively to the changes, make sure that you are comfortable throughout every trimester so that you experience the pregnancy with ease. If you are planning on getting antenatal care or any gynecological treatment, you can book an appointment with Good Health Clinic for Women. This is where you can get effective guidance with access to prominent gynaecological consultation fromDr. N.S. Sai Anusha. We will offer you the treatment that you need with care.
FAQ’s
- Is tender or painful breast pain a confirmed sign of pregnancy?
Breast soreness is one of the pregnancy signs, but you cannot confirm pregnancy with it because some women also experience breast soreness during the menstrual period.
- Will my breasts remain the same after delivery?
After delivery, your breasts will not remain the same; they may change in size or shape due to hormonal changes.
