It is an old-wives’ tale that breastfeeding will make your breast sagging, which has terrified many new mothers. If you want to breastfeed your child but still concern about this, worry no more. Research has proven that breastfeeding has no impact on both the shape and volume of your breast.
What does science have to say?
You may already notice this: During your pregnancy, your breasts get fuller and heavier, causing the ligaments supporting them to stretch. This stretching is probably the culprit of your post-delivery sagging breast, whether you breastfeed your child or not. With each subsequent pregnancy, the sagging may become more and more noticeable. Aging and smoking also contribute to sagging breasts because they all reduce the skin elasticity. Being overweight and having huge breasts can give you the same effect. In other words, it is safe to say breastfeeding is not to be blamed for your sagging breasts.
Can bras prevent sagging?
It is believed that push-up bras can prevent sagging. However, there is no scientific evidence to back up that claim. If wearing a certain bra to bed makes you feel more comfortable, just do it, but do not expect it to keep your breasts safe. Nevertheless, experts advise women to wear supportive bras to prevent your breasts from stretching too much due to the bouncing when you exercise.
Do small breasts sag?
Yes, they do. Women with small breasts experience sagging as well, whether they breastfeed or not. The extent of sagging you get depends on the ratio of your breast tissue to fat. If you have more breast tissues compared to fat, then you have high breast density, which means your breasts will be less likely to sag than those with low breast density.
Can exercises help?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Breasts have no muscles. There is no exercise can target them or tone them up. However, doing chest exercises may help a bit. By elevating the muscles around your breasts, your breasts will likely look better, too.
How to mitigate the sagging?
While sagging breasts are inevitable for women after delivery, there are certain ways to minimize it, including:
- Maintain a healthy weight;
- Avoid gaining or losing weight too fast;
- Quit smoking.
As a mother, keep in mind that breastfeeding is best for your child. Do not let the fear of sagging breasts come in the way of loving and raising a healthy child.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnose or treatment.
