Pregnancy

Taking Care of Your Breasts during Pregnancy

During pregnancy, taking care of yourself is as important as it was before you found out you were pregnant. If you feel good, you look radiant and confident, keeping your self-esteem high. The way you feel during pregnancy has a direct impact on your mood, motivating you and helping you to manage your stress level.

However, when it comes to your breasts, the care has a double importance because it is not only an aesthetic matter, but also the beginning of the adequate preparation for breastfeeding, as well as to relieve early pregnancy signs

The basic caring of your breasts includes washing them along with your nipples while using a mild soap. If your nipples crack or bleed, visit your doctor or seek the advice of a lactation consultant.

Pregnancy is also responsible for breast changes, including size, symmetry, shape of breasts or nipples, appearance and color. The longer a woman breastfeeds, the more her breasts are will change in shape and size.

While you are pregnant, avoid the use of lotions and creams if they are not recommended by a health professional. During the first trimester, your breasts can become fuller, tender or swollen, with increasing sensitivity to the touch.

However, later in pregnancy, painful breasts can be caused by clogged milk ducts or infections accompanied with fever. Contact your doctor immediately if you feel breast pain near labor and delivery.

Some pregnant women will develop enormous breasts within the first few weeks of pregnancy or after delivery, getting bigger and bigger over the months. Although many women feel discomfort wearing a bra during pregnancy, the larger the breasts become, the more important it is keep them well supported to prevent the ligaments from stretching.

Concerning breastfeeding, take care of your breasts trying to avoid certain movements, such as sliding your hands over the breasts, because this action may cause painful skin burns. Do not squeeze your breasts, as it may cause bruising, and always avoid pulling your nipples, which may result in tissue damage.

Because sex is an important part of the relationship between you and your partner, many couples continue their sexual life during pregnancy. During pregnancy, sex may become a source of additional concerns or problems, but related to your breasts, sometimes they are the focus of the sexual pleasure instead of vaginal intercourse.