most pregnant women will feel some changes in their breasts. your breasts will increase in size as your milk glands enlarge and the fat tissue increases causing breast firmness and tenderness in the first and last few months of pregnancy. bluish veins may also appear as your blood supply increases. your nipples will also darken and a thick fluid called colostrum may leak from your breasts. all of these breast changes are normal. recommendations: wear a bra that provides firm support. choose cotton bras or those made from other natural fibers. increase your bra size as your breasts become larger. your bra should fit well without irritating your nipples. try maternity or nursing bras which provide more support and can be used after pregnancy if you choose to breastfeed. to ease discomfort and maintain support try wearing a bra during the night and day. tuck a cotton handkerchief or gauze pad into each bra cup to absorb leaking fluid. nursing pads which you can buy in a pharmacy are also available. make sure to change these pads as needed to prevent irritation to the underlying skin. clean your breasts with warm water only; do not use soap or other products since they can cause dryness.
how should i manage breast changes during pregnancy?