Life
7 Tips For Breastfeeding With Small Breasts
When I found out I was pregnant, one of the first thoughts that crossed my mind (OK, maybe not the first, but definitely top ten) was that I'd finally have big boobs. Or bigger boobs, at least. Don't get me wrong, I personally prefer my borderline-B-cups to bigger sizes any day, but it was fun to imagine my dream of bigger boobs. Of course, not all women's boobs grow twice in size, so it's important to have some tips for breastfeeding with small boobs under your belt.
Although a growing bust is certainly one of the perks of breastfeeding, my boobs never got as big and I'd imaged and hoped. Sure, I went up a cup size. But for all intents and purposes, even after nursing two babies throughout three years, my boobs are still just about the size they were before I got pregnant. Bummer, I know. Over the years, I've come to appreciate the fact that I'm nursing my babies with smaller boobs. Because regardless of breast size, the fact that you're nourishing your baby with your own body, is pretty darn amazing.
These tips range from expert advice to my own personal experience, but they're all meant to encourage, educate, and help you nurse to the best of your ability.
1Do Your Research
Although it may seem logical to think that women with smaller boobs won't make enough milk for their babies, that is completely false. According to Baby Center, your breast size has nothing to do with the amount of milk you produce. Many small-boobed moms worry about having a low supply, though, so doing your research before hand to notice the true signs of a low milk supply will save you unnecessary worry in the long run.
2Try Different Positions
In the beginning, it may be hard to get a proper latch, so Very Well suggests trying the V-hold on your breast as your baby is latching on to help them get a better amount in their latch. Additionally, lying on your back or side to nurse is often a comfortable position to nurse in (and one of my favorites as well).
3Buy Comfortable Nursing Bras
Most nursing bras are made with big breasts in mind. I mean, breastfeeding usually equals big boobs, right? Not in every case, and for those of us who still aren't heavily endowed even after breastfeeding, finding a good nursing bra can be tricky. Although you may not need much extra support, find one that allows you easy access, that you can wear with multiple outfits, and is comfortable.
4Track Your Baby's Growth
If you're genuinely worried that you're not making enough milk, the only true way to know is by tracking your baby's dirty diapers and their weight gain, according to Today's Parent.
5Embrace Having (Slightly) Bigger Boobs
For now, embrace your larger ladies. I always wondered what it would be like to have bigger boobs, and now, thanks to breastfeeding (read: engorgement), I know.
6And That They'll Bounce Right Back When You're Done
But don't get too attached, because the minute you're done nursing, your boobies will bounce right back to the way they were before (more or less). Which is actually a great thing. According to one study, breastfeeding actually has nothing to do with sagging breasts, it's the weight gained during pregnancy.
7Be Confident
No matter the size of your breasts, take pride in the fact that your body is nourishing your baby. Whether you nurse in public, or in your living room, rock what you've got, because you're taking care of your baby and that's all that truly matters.
