I count myself among the women who’ve been gifted with a set of DD breasts. While I appreciate my ample bosom, it truly has its drawbacks. From back pain to the constant struggle of finding clothes that fit, my large breasts have been both a blessing and a curse. However, the most significant challenge arose when it came time to breastfeed.
During my first pregnancy, my breasts swelled—something I anticipated. But when my baby arrived and my milk came in, I was taken aback by just how enormous they became. This rapid growth made it incredibly difficult to nurse my tiny newborn, especially in the beginning.
It’s important to note that breast size doesn’t dictate milk production. As various sources, including La Leche League, point out, the fatty tissue in your breasts doesn’t determine how much milk you can produce. Instead, it’s the glandular tissue deep within that plays a critical role, along with how effectively your baby suckles. As a lactation consultant, I’ve seen mothers with large breasts who struggle with low milk supply and others with smaller breasts who have an oversupply.
The complications of breastfeeding with larger breasts aren’t related to milk supply, but rather the sheer size of the breasts themselves, which can make latching a challenge. My first child, for instance, had his own latching issues—he was often sleepy and later diagnosed with a tongue tie. This made it even trickier for him to latch onto my sizable breast.
As a new mom, grappling with postpartum hormones, this struggle was overwhelming. I often felt like throwing in the towel. I didn’t know what I was doing, and my newborn seemed just as confused about navigating my large bosom.
But I persevered, and so can you. Here are some tips that worked for me and many other moms I’ve assisted as a lactation consultant:
- Explore Different Positions: The classic cradle hold might not be ideal for larger breasts. Many moms find success with the cross-cradle or football hold, which give better control over both the breast and baby. I also love laid-back positions that allow gravity to assist in supporting the baby.
- Support Your Breasts: If your breasts have a tendency to sag, using your hand to lift them while nursing can be essential. Some moms find that placing a rolled-up towel underneath provides extra support. Additionally, creating a “nipple sandwich” with your hand can help your baby latch onto the larger areola.
- Don’t Stress Over Engorgement: Larger breasts can mean less noticeable engorgement compared to smaller-breasted moms. This is normal. If you’re feeling fullness a few days after birth and your baby is growing well, you’re producing enough milk.
- Invest in a Good Nursing Bra: A supportive nursing bra is a must. Avoid underwires and overly tight fits, which can contribute to conditions like mastitis. You can purchase one during pregnancy, but it’s best to wait until your third trimester to account for any changes in size.
- Watch for Rashes: Larger breasts can be prone to rashes under the breast due to sweat and milk leakage, making them a breeding ground for yeast infections. It’s important to keep the area clean and dry, and airing out your breasts whenever possible can help prevent irritation.
- Practice Nursing in Public: Once you master breastfeeding, you may feel anxious about doing it in public, especially concerning modesty. Remember, it’s your right to nurse wherever you need to. Practicing in front of a mirror can help you feel more comfortable with how it looks from the outside.
- Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. Whether it’s hiring a lactation consultant or joining a breastfeeding support group, hands-on help can be invaluable.
In short, don’t feel like you’re in this alone. Learning to breastfeed with larger breasts is challenging but rewarding. And remember, in a few weeks, your breasts will settle down, your baby will grow, and breastfeeding will become a lot easier.
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Summary
Breastfeeding with larger breasts presents unique challenges, from finding the best positions to managing comfort and support. However, with practice, support, and the right resources, many mothers navigate this journey successfully.
Keyphrase: breastfeeding with large breasts
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