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Breast Changes During Pregnancy

Topic Overview

In the second trimester of pregnancy, your breasts will become larger and heavier, and you may need a larger and more supportive bra. The tenderness and tingling sensation from early pregnancy will probably decrease.

As your breasts become larger, the veins become more noticeable under the skin. The nipples and the area around the nipples (areola) become darker and larger. Small bumps may appear on the areolae and disappear after delivery.

Some women develop stretch marks on their breasts.

As early as the 16th to 19th week, you may notice a thin, yellowish discharge (colostrum) from your nipples. Colostrum is what your breasts produce when they are preparing for breast-feeding.

In the third trimester, your chest wall may widen because of the growing baby. You may need a larger bra or a bra extender.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kirtly Jones, MD, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Revised November 10, 2010

Last Revised: November 10, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Kirtly Jones, MD, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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