The journey of first-time motherhood is often filled with excitement and anticipation. While each subsequent pregnancy is certainly remarkable, the initial experience is uniquely thrilling, marked by a series of novel transformations. Every physical change brings with it a sense of wonder, heightened by the unpredictability of what lies ahead.
During my first pregnancy, I was enjoying the thrill until I noticed an unusual, kiwi-sized lump developing in my armpit. Panic set in as I contemplated the worst-case scenarios. Could this be cancer? Was it a tumor? My mind raced with questions.
In the ultrasound technician’s office, I focused intently on the monitor, trying to decipher what was happening.
“What’s going on?” I asked nervously.
“All I can see is breast tissue. I’ll send the results to your doctor,” she replied.
Relief washed over me – no tumor, just breast tissue… in my armpit. However, I was baffled as to why this was happening, and my OB/GYN offered little clarity. I was informed that breast tissue can swell during pregnancy and that it should revert to normal after childbirth. While this explanation was comforting, I couldn’t help but notice that no other expectant mothers appeared to share my peculiar experience.
Eventually, a lactation consultant friend suggested it might be an extra mammary gland. This was confirmed after I gave birth to my son. When a second lactation consultant came to check on my nursing situation, I couldn’t help but exclaim, “I think I have a third boob!” In true lactation consultant fashion, she examined the area, lifting my hospital gown to investigate.
She explained that milk lines extend from the armpit down the abdomen, similar to how dogs or cats nurse their litters. One can be born with additional mammary glands or even extra nipples along these lines, and unless a visible nipple is present, many remain unaware of their existence until pregnancy prompts changes. To my astonishment, she shared that another patient had been in the hospital the previous day with eight mammary glands! I suddenly felt fortunate to only have one.
The consultant assured me that it would diminish after nursing and since there was no visible nipple, it would dry up. However, she was mistaken. When my milk came in, I soon found myself asking my husband to turn up the air conditioning because I felt overheated. Upon glancing down, I realized I wasn’t sweating; instead, I discovered that what I thought was a small brown freckle was actually a nipple, currently leaking milk onto my shirt. Yes, I had a lactating third breast.
I had to nurse with a towel tucked under my arm, while other mothers utilized breast pads. To add to the challenge, my son was born in June, which made for an interesting wardrobe choice of tank tops.
Between my first and second child, I opted for surgery to remove the extra gland. While some breast tissue remains, resulting in occasional swelling during pregnancy, at least I no longer have a nipple to contend with. I’ve come to accept my unique situation; however, I prefer not to deal with wet clothing every time I nurse or soothe a crying baby.
In conclusion, having a third mammary gland can offer a humorous perspective on the changes to one’s body post-pregnancy. While stretch marks and skin changes can be daunting, I can always look in the mirror and remind myself, “At least it doesn’t lactate!” A toast to the third boob for providing me with a great story and perhaps even a brighter outlook on life.
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