Breast changes during pregnancy are very common and usually happen as the body prepares for breastfeeding. The breasts may increase in size, feel sore or more sensitive, and the areolas may become darker.

Veins may also become more visible on the breast surface because of increased blood flow. In the 3rd trimester, some women may notice small amounts of colostrum leaking from the nipples.

During this time, breast care can help relieve discomfort, prevent nipple cracks or stretch marks, and prepare the breasts for breastfeeding. Helpful measures include wearing supportive bras and washing the nipples with water only.

Main breast changes during pregnancy

The main breast changes during pregnancy are:

1. Increase in size

The breasts usually increase in size during pregnancy because of higher levels of estrogen and progesterone in the bloodstream. This growth may begin early in pregnancy and is important for preparing the breasts to produce milk.

2. Breasts become sore or sensitive

As body weight increases, the belly grows, and breast milk production begins, it is normal for the breasts to become sore or sensitive. This sensation usually starts between the 6th and 7th week of pregnancy, but it may appear later in some cases.

3. The areola becomes darker

Due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow in the breasts, it is normal for the areolas to become darker than usual. This darker color usually remains throughout breastfeeding, but it returns to normal after the baby stops breastfeeding exclusively.

4. Small bumps around the areola become more prominent

Some women have small bumps around the areola called Montgomery tubercles. These are oil-producing glands that help protect the mother’s skin during breastfeeding.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is normal for these small glands to become more prominent. This is not a cause for concern.

5. Stretch marks may appear

Because the breasts can grow quickly during pregnancy, it is common for stretch marks to appear on the skin.

6. Colostrum leakage

In the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, especially in the last weeks or days, a woman may notice small drops of colostrum if the nipple is pressed correctly. Colostrum is the first type of milk produced by the breasts.

After a few days, the milk becomes thicker and is produced in larger amounts. It also becomes whiter and less watery.

7. Veins become more visible

The veins in the breasts become more visible because blood flow to the breasts increases during pregnancy. As the breasts grow, the skin also stretches, which can make the veins easier to see. They may look greenish or blue, which is completely normal.

How to care for the breasts during pregnancy

Breast care recommendations during pregnancy include:

Wear a bra that supports the breasts well during the day and at night, preferably made of cotton, with wide straps and no underwire;
Apply a moisturizing cream or sweet almond oil to the breasts, avoiding the areola and nipple, to help prevent stretch marks;
Wash the nipples and areolas with water only, avoiding alcohol-based hygiene products or soaps, which can remove the nipples’ natural moisture and increase the risk of cracks;
Use nursing pads if colostrum leakage is frequent or uncomfortable near the end of pregnancy, changing them often to help prevent irritation and infections related to moisture;
Leave the nipples exposed to air as much as possible so the skin stays healthy and intact, helping to prevent cracks and fungal infections.

In addition, one tip to prepare the breasts for breastfeeding is to massage them 1 or 2 times a day starting in the 4th month of pregnancy. Massage may help make the nipple more prominent for breastfeeding, which can make it easier for the baby to latch and suck milk.

7 Breast Changes During Pregnancy (& What to Do)