It’s a question you might have asked yourself at some point. And let’s be honest, it’s not exactly a go-to dinner conversation. But when you're pregnant, changes to your nipples and breasts can be one of the first signs that something extraordinary is happening. Curious about what’s really going on with your nipples? We asked lactation consultants Anouk Bolhaar and Marjes Elling to share all the ins and outs of this fascinating topic.
Let’s talk about the nipplephant in the room
Sore or Itchy Nipples
Many women notice changes in their breasts before they even realize they’re pregnant. Sore breasts or itchy nipples during pregnancy can actually be one of the earliest signs. During the first trimester, your breasts start to grow due to an increase in estrogen and progesterone.
The stretching of your skin (including your nipples), caused by swollen milk glands and improved blood flow, can lead to that tight, itchy feeling. While these discomforts usually subside after the first trimester, some women experience them throughout their pregnancy.
Nipple & Areola Changes
Midway through pregnancy, your breasts begin preparing to produce milk. Although pregnancy hormones temporarily block full milk production, areola changes become more noticeable. Your areola (the area around your nipple) darkens, and your nipples might leak a little fluid. Don’t worry—this is colostrum, the first milk your body produces to nourish your baby.
You may also find that your nipples feel firmer or appear more pronounced. And speaking of size, here’s a fun fact: your areola grows from an average diameter of 34mm early in pregnancy to about 50mm postpartum. These changes serve a purpose—more on that next!
Meet the Montgomery Glands
Allow us to introduce the unsung heroes of your nipples: the Montgomery glands! These tiny bumps on your areola are scent-producing powerhouses. They secrete a fluid that keeps your nipples moisturized and produces a scent that helps your newborn locate the nipple after birth. How cool is that? 😎
First Aid for Sore Nipples
Changing, sore, or itchy nipples are all part of the pregnancy journey and nothing to worry about. But let’s be real—they can be annoying. Here’s how to give your nipples the TLC they deserve:
🧴 Nipple Cream
Head to your local pharmacy and grab a lanolin-based cream. This ultra-rich ointment is free from artificial additives and preservatives, making it perfect for sensitive skin. Bonus: it’s safe for your baby’s skin, too.
🎀 Comfortable Bras
Be kind to your nipples with a comfy bra—like the Feelou® nursing maternity bra. Made from soft, breathable fabric, it prevents irritation and keeps you feeling your best throughout pregnancy.
💆🏼♀️ Communicate with your partner
Talk to your partner about any discomfort. Touch may feel different now, so let them know what works (and what doesn’t) for your sensitive breasts. Trust us - this could be a win-win for everyone involved. 😻
Curious About What’s Next?
Those sensitive nipples are just the beginning of your breast transformation. As your pregnancy progresses, your breast tissue evolves to prepare for breastfeeding.
Want to know exactly what’s happening? We’ve partnered with medical professionals to create an easy-to-digest infographic covering all the details about breast changes during and after pregnancy. Simply enter your details on this page, and we’ll send it straight to your inbox.