How to Prevent Breast Sagging After Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Why do breasts sag after Pregnancy?
The main ligament that gives your pre-baby boobs perkiness is called the Cooper Ligament. “During pregnancy it’s normal for breasts to get fuller and heavier, causing the ligaments to stretch. This stretching may cause the breasts to eventually sag. And, unfortunately, the more pregnancies a woman has, the more likely breasts are to sag” says Stacey Stewart, a certified Lactation Educator through CAPAA and the creator of the Milkology Breastfeeding Course.
Many other things may lead to breast sagging as well.
“Cigarette smoking, poor diet, and lots of time in the sun can reduce skin elasticity which leads to sagging. Also, having a high body mass index (BMI) or gaining and losing significant amounts of weight might do it as well” adds Stewart.
And as for breastfeeding and sagging, well, Stacey Stewart is here to set the record straight…
“The good news is that research consistently shows that breastfeeding does NOT lead to sagging of the breasts!”
So breastfeeding, you’re off the hook! It seems that the major player here is pregnancy.
So, can you prevent the sagging?
It can’t be guaranteed. Every woman’s body is unique and beautiful in its own way. Genetics will play a HUGE role in your breast size and shape, just as they did before you had your baby. Some woman may take extreme measures to prevent sagging and still see a big change from pre-pregnancy, while others won’t think twice about it and be perkier than ever!
What’s important here is that you do what it best for you and your baby. In the end, your change in breast shape should be a wonderful reminder of your journey with baby.
So here are some steps you can take to prevent sagging breast, but in the end, embrace the changes mama! You’re as beautiful as ever!
It All Starts with Good Support
The more you allow that Cooper Ligament to carry the weight of your breast, the most it will stretch. A good, supportive nursing bra is key to preventing or reducing sagging of breasts, especially during aerobic activities.
According to Stewart, “If you’re doing an exercise that involves a lot of bouncing (running, high impact aerobics, etc.), then a quality sports bra can save the day! If you don’t wear a supportive sports bra during these activities, then connective tissue in the breast may be broken down, affecting the shape of the breast”
We have always preferred the Kindred Bravely nursing bras. They have a very supportive nursing sports bra that’s incredibly comfy (and even more incredibly reviewed by other woman). You can check out this post for a full list of nursing bra’s breastfeeding mothers should have.
Hydrate & Moisturize
Aim to drink no less than 8 8-ounce glasses of water a day. You will need even more if you are breastfeeding to keep up your milk supply. While drinking plenty of water well help hydrate from the inside, it’s best to moisturize the skin’s surface as well. Good news is, if you’ve got any of your stretch mark prevention cream left over from pregnancy, it’s perfect for this purpose. It will help keep the breast skin supple and assist in returning to its pre-baby and pre-breastfeeding size.
Live Healthy Lifestyle
A balanced diet and exercise regimen does wonders for the body and mind. Of course, you don’t want to start any workouts before you get the all-clear from your doctor. But once you are able to, carry on an exercise regimen that you enjoy. Whether it be yoga or running or lifting weight, do what ever brings you those endorphins! Being the Parent has a great list of 7 exercises you can do to help lift those breasts after delivery. But remember to wear a good, supportive bra! A healthy diet is also key. Avoid excess sugar and, again, drink plenty of water.
Does Early Weaning Cause Breast Sagging?
Well, weaning in general will effect the breast shape, but not for long. According to the Le Leche League “The mother may experience several physical changes after weaning. Most women find a need to adjust their diets to eliminate the calories that were supporting milk production to avoid gaining weight. Their breasts may sag at first and be soft but generally return to pre-pregnancy size after several menstrual cycles.”
Again, I can’t end this article without reminding you that the shape of your breast does change that you are a wonderful mama! Your little one is lucky to have you 🙂
