WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Breast Changes in the First Trimester

Breast Changes in the First Trimester
Breast changes during the first trimester of pregnancy are among the earliest signs of pregnancy.
These changes can include breast tenderness, swelling, increased sensitivity, and darkening of the areolas. These symptoms are primarily caused by hormonal changes, particularly the increased levels of estrogen and progesterone, which prepare the breasts for lactation.
Is It Normal?
Yes, experiencing breast changes in the first trimester is completely normal and a common early sign of pregnancy.
These changes are a part of the body's natural preparation for breastfeeding.
Percentage of Women Affected
A vast majority of pregnant women experience some form of breast changes during the first trimester:
  • First Month: Approximately 70-80% of women notice changes in their breasts.
  • Second Month: The prevalence remains high, with about 85% experiencing continued breast changes.
  • Third Month: Most women continue to experience some degree of breast changes.
Tips to Prevent and Care for Breast Changes
  1. Wear Supportive Bras: Opt for comfortable, well-fitting, supportive bras, possibly including a maternity bra.
  2. Use Gentle Skincare: Apply moisturizing lotions to help with skin stretching and tenderness.
  3. Avoid Hot Showers: Extremely hot water can increase breast sensitivity and discomfort.
  4. Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses can help soothe breast tenderness.
"In the first trimester, it's normal for your breasts to change and grow, which can be uncomfortable or even unwelcome; remember, it's okay to have mixed feelings about these changes, and ensure you prioritize comfort with supportive bras and self-care.”
When Should I Consult?
Consult a healthcare provider if:
  • You notice any unusual symptoms like lumps, significant asymmetry between breasts, or discharge.
  • Breast tenderness is severe and affects your daily life.
  • You develop a rash or severe skin reaction on your breasts.
  • You have concerns about the changes or how to manage discomfort.
Top Asked Questions
  1. Is it normal for my breasts to feel very tender in the first trimester? Yes, tenderness is a common and normal symptom.
  2. Can these breast changes indicate any complications? Typically, these changes are normal, but any unusual symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
  3. Will my breasts continue to change throughout my pregnancy? Yes, breasts can continue to change throughout pregnancy and after childbirth.
  4. Are there any specific products to avoid or use for breast care during pregnancy? Avoid harsh chemicals and opt for mild, hypoallergenic skincare products.
Sources
  • The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Guidelines on physical changes during pregnancy.
  • The National Health Service (NHS, UK): Advice on breast changes during pregnancy.
  • Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing: Studies on physiological changes in pregnancy.
  • Mayo Clinic: Comprehensive overview of pregnancy symptoms and how to manage them.
More info
J
Jayda
6 Jun 2023

Has anyone got this on their breast in thier first trimester doesn't hurt doesn't itch either thought it was a pimple and tried popping but nothing happened and leaving it alone just wondering if anyone else has had this

4 comments
K
Ki 💝
Yes ma’am. They are normal 🥰
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
v
vonne
I have that too 😭. I thought I was tripping
27 Mar 2024

Answer


J
Jayy💜
27 Dec 2022

Am I the only one who having a great first trimester ? No morning sickness no nothing besides sore breast 😂 this actually is fun

12 comments
P
PrincessAkilah
Yessss!! 🤣🤣 absolutely no problem but nausea & sore breast
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
J
Jayy💜
Yes I get nauseous but it ain’t bad at all it’s not all day only when I take my pills 😂😂 other than that my baby just be chillin
27 Mar 2024

Answer


y
yasmin
29 Sep 2022

So my boobs were small before I got pregnant & in like my first trimester they got bigger and I started getting some stretch marks & darker and larger nipples. Will my nipples go back to normal after pregnancy & how can I prevent saggy breast!!

3 comments
B
Blocked user
It's normal for a mama boobs nipples and areolas to grow during pregnancy some grow 2 or 3 cup sizes, but sadly no nothing about them will go back to how they were before you got pregnant
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
B
Blocked user
To prevent sagging breasts wear a good supportive nursing bra
27 Mar 2024

Answer


Q
Queen Cici👑
18 Sep 2022

When do your breast start leaking when u pregnant? I’ve heard women say there’s started in the second trimester….and I’m in the second trimester. I personally haven’t leaked. I’m wondering like is it one of them situations where it only happen to some women.

6 comments
M
Morgan
Mine leaked the other day at 21 weeks 5 days
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
T
Trina
Yea everyone is different I’m 35 weeks and haven’t seen a drop yet
27 Mar 2024

Answer


B
BooLove26
27 Aug 2022

So I read that if you suffer morning sickness a lot first trimester your left breast will be bigger but if you didn’t the right breast will be bigger

6 comments
B
BLaq
Well that explains y my left boob is huuuggeee lmao
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
B
BLaq
Kuz geesh it’s big lol
27 Mar 2024

Answer


T
Tyquanda
5 Jun 2022

Soo all my symptoms except the excruciating breast/nipple pain has subsided…6 more days I’ll be in my second trimester even though some are saying I’m in my second cause I’m 13 weeks I’ll just say 14 weeks will make my second trimester but omg wish the breast/nipple pain would have left with all the rest of them🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

1 comments
L
Lindsay
Yes it is 14 weeks! 😍 6 days here too! We got this
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments

Related articles

Hot topics

More questions from Moms