Does breastfeeding cause breasts to sag?
So, will breastfeeding cause sagging breasts? The answer is yes. If you plan to breastfeed, you can relieve the sagging state through massage, attention to physical recovery, exercise, and other methods. This way, you can both breastfeed your child and reduce the impact of breastfeeding on your breasts, achieving two goals at once.
It is certain that breastfeeding will cause sagging breasts. During pregnancy, the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body increase significantly, stimulating the secondary growth and development of the breasts in order to prepare for lactation. However, after weaning, the levels of these hormones return to normal, and the breasts naturally shrink. Additionally, the sucking stimulation of the breasts during breastfeeding can lead to sagging, relaxation, and shrinkage of the breasts.
There are several ways to prevent sagging breasts during breastfeeding:
a. Massage: Massage can help regulate the sagging of the breasts and has a good inhibitory effect on sagging. Before going to bed, mothers can use their hands to gently press on the acupoints above the breasts, which can not only relieve sagging but also detect any underlying issues. Mothers can also take time to massage their breasts, rotating their palms around the breasts in a circular motion, first clockwise and then counterclockwise, until the breasts feel warm. Finally, they can use their fingers to gently pull the nipples several times and push upward under the breasts several times.
b. Diet: Eating foods like pig's feet and papaya can help enhance the breasts' firmness and reduce sagging. The collagen in these foods provides support to the breasts.
c. Manage Weight Gain During Pregnancy and Avoid Rapid Weight Loss After Delivery: Appropriate weight gain during pregnancy and gradual weight loss after delivery are crucial for improving sagging breasts. The ideal rate of weight gain should be determined based on the mother's pre-pregnancy weight and consultation with a doctor or nutritionist.
d. Exercise: Improving and strengthening the pectoral muscles can help improve the shape of the breasts. Exercises like push-ups and chest expansion can be helpful for breastfeeding mothers.
e. Wear the Right Bra: Wearing a comfortable, natural, and loose bra that provides support to the breasts can help maintain their shape and promote blood circulation. It is best to choose a light-colored cotton bra without underwire. Additionally, wearing a supportive sports bra during aerobic exercise is essential to avoid excessive strain on the ligaments and tissues.
f. Correct Breastfeeding Position and Technique: When breastfeeding, it is important to position the nipple and most of the areola into the baby's mouth to allow effective suction.
