They are changing, everything is normal!
From early pregnancy, hormonal changes stimulate the growth of mammary glands and ducts in preparation for breastfeeding. Therefore, the breasts gradually enlarge, the blue veins become more prominent, the areola may darken, and there may be a feeling of tightness, sometimes even pain—all of which are normal. Changes in breast size vary from person to person; some women experience slight changes, while others see significant changes. Breasts typically reach their maximum size a few days after delivery, when milk production begins.
If you don't breastfeed, the sudden drop in hormones can cause your breasts to shrink rapidly; if you choose to breastfeed, they will gradually return to their original size. Regardless of your choice, the earlier you start caring for your breasts, the better you can maintain their firmness and elasticity.
Change into a suitable new bra
For your comfort and breast health, you should consider buying a new bra when you start to feel discomfort. On average, each breast gains about 500 grams in late pregnancy, and the overall cup size may increase by two sizes within nine months.
It's recommended to measure your size once during each pregnancy and choose a deeper cup and wider shoulder straps for sufficient support without being too tight, so you can even wear it at night. This will not only make you more comfortable but also allow you to look your best. Modern maternity bras are just as stylish as regular lingerie in terms of design, color, and materials.
Choose firming and soothing skincare products
Breasts themselves have no muscles; their firmness mainly depends on the elasticity of the skin. A sudden increase in volume can easily stretch the skin, causing discomfort or even pain. While cold compresses can temporarily relieve tightness, their effects are limited and cannot truly improve the skin's condition.
The best approach is to start using breast care products daily from early pregnancy. These products promote the formation of supportive fibers, deeply moisturize, and soothe skin sensitivity caused by changes in volume.
When choosing products, please avoid ingredients not recommended during pregnancy (such as parabens, preservatives, phthalates, phenoxyethanol, caffeine, bisphenol A and S, and alcohol), and ensure they are safe to use while breastfeeding. When massaging, gently massage from the inside of the breast outwards, then upwards towards the neck. This treatment can also be used in conjunction with stretch mark care products, as hormonal changes and skin stretching can easily lead to stretch marks.
Maintaining back and chest muscles
As the breasts grow larger, gravity pulls them forward, which can easily lead to loose chest muscles and back pain if the posture is poor.
In addition to using skincare products, remember to maintain an upright posture and avoid tension in your chest, neck, and upper back. You don't need to be so stiff you can't breathe; simply extend the top of your head upwards (without lifting your chin) and your tailbone downwards.
To strengthen the pectoral muscles that support the chest, you can spend a few minutes each day doing the following simple exercise: Put your palms together, with your elbows at shoulder height. Inhale as you press your palms together forcefully, hold for three seconds, and exhale as you relax. Repeat about fifteen times.
