Breast Changes During Pregnancy.

I'm 13 weeks' pregnant, and my breasts are getting bigger. Isn't this a little early?
Many changes occur in your breasts during pregnancy. After about 8 weeks, it's normal for your breasts to start getting larger. You may even notice they are lumpy or nodular. These are all normal changes in pregnancy.

I've heard that a woman gains a lot of weight in her breasts during pregnancy. Is that true?
Most women gain between 1 and 1-1/2 pounds in each breast.

My breasts are very tender and sore. Is this normal?
Tenderness, tingling or soreness of your breasts early in pregnancy is common.

The area around my nipples is getting darker. Should I be concerned?
No, this is normal. The nipple is surrounded by the areola. Before pregnancy the areola is usually pink but turns brown or red-brown and may get larger during pregnancy and lactation (when you produce milk).

I've noticed some fluid coming from my breasts, staining my clothes. I'm only about halfway through my pregnancy. Is this breast milk already?
No, it isn't. During the 2nd trimester, a thin yellow fluid called colostrum is formed; it is the precursor to breast milk. Sometimes it will leak from the breasts or can be expressed by squeezing the nipples. Don't try to express the fluid. Wear breast pads if you have problems with leakage.

I've heard about inverted nipples but don't know what they are. Can you tell me more about them?
Inverted nipples are flat or retract (invert) into the breast. Women with inverted nipples may find it more difficult to breastfeed. Talk to your doctor about it.

How can I tell if I have inverted nipples?
Place your thumb and index finger on the areola, the dark area surrounding the nipple. Gently compress the base of the nipple. If it flattens or retracts into the breast, you have inverted nipples.

Can I do anything about inverted nipples?
Yes. Breast shields can help prepare your breasts for nursing. You can wear them during the last few weeks of pregnancy. You wear these plastic shells under your bra to create a slight pressure at the base of the nipple. This pressure helps draw the nipple out, making it easier for you to breastfeed your baby.