The physical and emotional changes and developments experienced during pregnancy also lead to changes in the mother's life. The effects of the hormones estrogen, progesterone and prolactin secreted in excess during this period are seen in the breasts a little more than in the mother's entire metabolism and organs. This increase in hormones causes the breasts to swell, stretch, become fuller and heavier. During this period, as the breasts grow, the nipples also grow, widen and take on a dark brown color. These symptoms, which are gradually more visible from the beginning to the end of the pregnancy , continue throughout the pregnancy. As the breast skin stretches, the veins emerge from underneath, become more visible and cracks and clefts appear on the breasts.
Pain in the breasts during pregnancy
When pregnancy hormones start to increase, the breasts are affected as well as the whole body. The increased prolactin hormone in particular starts to slowly enlarge and fill the breasts. Too much stretching, heaviness and fullness of the breasts causes pain and aches in the breast area. However, these pains felt are definitely not so severe that they will strain the expectant mother too much and negatively affect her life. It may be beneficial to avoid tight, tight underwear and clothes in order to relieve the pain or feel it less. In addition, massaging with moisturizing creams from time to time can be recommended as it will reduce tension and relieve pain.
Itching that may occur in the breast parts during pregnancy
It is known that breasts that become larger, swollen, heavy and stretched cause pain and sometimes itching. As the breasts become fuller, the breast skin stretches and the itching sensation increases accordingly. In this case, itching will be prevented if the expectant mothers use creams recommended by the doctor or massage with natural oils as the breasts begin to stretch from the beginning of pregnancy.
Cracks in the breasts during pregnancy
As pregnancy hormones begin to be secreted, swelling and tension in the breasts occur. As the breasts grow, the skin stretches, and itching occurs on the dry skin. As a result of this, cracks form on the stretched skin.
Can itching and cracks in the breasts during pregnancy be prevented?
As the breasts begin to grow, the skin becomes itchy and cracks. The way to prevent these cracks is to prevent tension and itching. In order to prevent the skin from stretching and drying out, it is necessary to moisturize it. For this, moisturizing creams recommended by the doctor and natural oils such as olive oil, almond oil, wheat oil, walnut oil can be used. However, it is best to consult a doctor before using all these products.
What are the changes in breasts during pregnancy?
For the first 6 months after the baby is born, the baby's only food is breast milk. For this reason, milk hormones start working from the beginning of pregnancy and milk production for the baby begins. As the milk ducts grow under the influence of hormones, the volume of the breasts increases and the breasts become sensitive. The changes that occur in the breasts can be both felt and seen by the expectant mother. Because the breasts that grow, get heavier and stretch are more sensitive and tense. In addition, as the skin stretches, the veins under the skin become more visible. In addition, the area covered by the nipples expands, the tips become more visible and the color turns dark brown.
The first milk from the breasts
During pregnancy, milk may occasionally come out of the breasts in a yellowish color. This light-colored milk is called Colostrum. There is no need to worry unless the amount increases too much and the color turns red. However, if a blood-like fluid comes out of the breasts, it is useful to see a doctor immediately. During this period, small protruding formations similar to pimples are observed at the tips of the breasts. These are fat clusters that nourish the nipples and are very important for breast health. For this reason, the breasts should not be washed with soap, but should be cleaned with warm water.
Breast care is important during pregnancy
In order to prevent pain in the breasts that grow, become sensitive and stretched due to the effect of pregnancy hormones, underwear that fits the breasts perfectly should be preferred instead of tight, sweaty and constricting underwear. It is recommended that drying, scented lotions and creams should not be applied to the nipples, and moisturizing creams should be applied to areas other than the tips of the breasts. In particular, avoid washing the nipples with soaps that dry the skin. Washing the nipples only with warm water and drying them with a soft towel will be sufficient. In addition, it is recommended that the nipples are not stimulated, especially in the late stages of pregnancy.
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