1st trimester of pregnancy

The first third of pregnancy describes the first to third month of pregnancy or the first to twelfth month of SSW. Many women notice changes in their breasts as the first sign of pregnancy. Due to the strong increase in pregnancy hormones, especially at the beginning of the pregnancy, and the associated increase in the mammary gland ducts, the growth of the breast is the main focus for many women, usually by about one to two cup sizes.

The breast can itch, tingling and sometimes feel hot and swollen. A feeling of tension and sensitivity to even light touching can also occur. Many women notice a significant enlargement of the breasts between the sixth and eighth week of pregnancy. Between the eighth and twelfth week of pregnancy, the nipples and especially the areolas (the area around the nipples) can become darker and sometimes straighten up slightly.

2nd trimester of pregnancy

The second trimester describes the fourth to sixth month of pregnancy or the 13th to 28th week of pregnancy. The unpleasant symptoms such as itching, feelings of tension and sensitivity to touch decrease in most women and a slight growth of the breasts is now visible. In the second trimester, the breasts of expectant mothers already form a colorless first milk as a preliminary stage to breast milk. This first milk, also known as colostrum, is already partially discharged. It is possible that during the second trimester of pregnancy the above-mentioned stretch marks will form.

3rd trimester of pregnancy

aThe third trimester describes the seventh to ninth month of pregnancy or the 29th to 40th week of pregnancy. During this period, too, a continued slight growth of the breasts may be observed. Since the breasts are now actively preparing for the upcoming breastfeeding, they can also become fuller and heavier.

A tingling, itching and tightening of the breasts may also occur again in the third trimester. Some women notice lumps in the breasts at this stage of pregnancy, which are usually soft and shifting and are usually no cause for concern. Nevertheless, expectant mothers should always consult a gynecologist if they notice lumps in their breasts. After the birth, the increased secretion of the hormone prolactin leads to milk production and the hormone oxytocin to the expulsion of milk. The size of the expectant mother’s breast is not important; even women with small breasts can breastfeed their baby without any problems.