Breasts and Pregnancy

Breasts and pregnancy are related to each other due to physical effects produced in the body from fetal development. The process of having a child is very difficult on a woman�s body and can create drastic changes in breast size and appearance. Learning about how pregnancy can affect the breasts is the first step in regaining your figure after the birth and possible breastfeeding of your new infant.

Breasts and Pregnancy Effects

During the pregnancy, it is common for breasts to grow and swell. This is due to hormonal changes which are preparing the breasts to provide nourishment for the expected child. Women might begin lactation during the second half of the pregnancy and may continue to produce milk for up several years after the birth. This increase in breast size can cause the loss of elasticity in the skin and create possible permanent stretch marks on the breast. It is also common for the nipple and areola to grow and darken during the last stages of pregnancy.

Breasts and Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Nursing the infant can produce sore nipples and sensitive breasts. It is normal for extended periods of breastfeeding to cause stretching and possible drooping of the nipples. Breasts will typically decrease in size as lactation ceases. At the commencement of breastfeeding, it is common for a woman�s breasts to lose fullness and often appear flat or downward pointing. Larger breasts will often suffer more effects than smaller ones from extended periods of nursing.

Breast Repair after Pregnancy

Many women wind up with severe breast ptosis after breastfeeding their child. Some women love the memories of nursing their children and are emotionally unaffected by physical changes in the breast tissue. Other women are deeply disturbed by the changes which have been wrought on their bodies and will do almost anything to regain their pre-pregnancy appearance once again. It is for these women that cosmetic breast surgery is completely appropriate and advised. Depending on the size and condition of your breasts, they can be restored and renewed using any combination of breast enlargement, mastopexy or breast reduction surgeries.

The Bottom Line on Breasts and Pregnancy

Having a baby is one of the greatest joys in life. Spending those intimate first months providing your child with breast milk is a bonding experience unlike any other. If you have suffered emotional anguish as a result of pregnancy related changes to your breasts, you can find help. Cosmetic surgeons are experts at repairing �baby damage� to the breasts and other areas of the body. Consult with a qualified doctor to find out more information about how cosmetic surgery can bring your body back to its former glory and replenish your self confidence and body image.

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5/14/08