Many women notice it for the first time during pregnancy: a wet spot in the bra, a damp spot on the shirt. These are leaking breasts. Being pregnant brings with it all kinds of physical changes, and leaking nipples are sometimes part of it. But what can you do about it? And when is it normal? In this blog we explain everything about leaking breasts during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and we give you practical tips and solutions to deal with it.
Why do your breasts leak when you are pregnant?
During pregnancy, your body begins to prepare for breastfeeding. As early as the second trimester, the mammary glands can become active and produce colostrum (the first breast milk). This can cause leaking breasts during pregnancy. This is completely normal, although not every woman experiences this to the same extent. For some, it only happens at night or when pressure is applied to the breast, while others discover wet spots in their bra several times a day.
Leaking Breasts During Pregnancy: Normal or Not?
Although it can be annoying, leaking breasts or nipples during pregnancy are usually a sign that your body is preparing well for breastfeeding. The color of the fluid often ranges from clear to yellowish (colostrum). There is no need to worry unless you experience pain or bleeding — in which case it is a good idea to contact your midwife or lactation consultant.
What can you do about leaking breasts?
There are several ways to deal with leaking breasts — both during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Here are some practical tips:
1. Use drip trays or milk collectors
Breast milk collection cups collect breast milk that spontaneously leaks from your breasts. This can be useful during pregnancy, but especially during the postpartum period and when breastfeeding. For example, choose the Youha breastfeeding collection cups , which fit discreetly in your bra and feel comfortable. An alternative is the Youha breast milk collector (also called milk collector), with which you can even collect milk that you can store later.
2. Wear nursing pads
Nursing pads or breast pads absorb moisture and protect your clothes from getting wet. They are available in disposable and washable versions. If you don't want to store milk, nursing pads are a nice and easy solution. The disadvantage is that your breast milk is lost in these nursing pads. Read all about this product in our blog about nursing pads .
3. Wear a well-supporting bra
A nursing bra that fits well without pinching can help reduce leakage. Preferably choose a soft nursing or maternity bra made of breathable material, so that your skin can continue to breathe and you have less chance of irritation.
4. Avoid breast stimulation
Stimulate your breasts as little as possible, especially if you notice that your breasts or nipples leak when touched or warm. Also, when showering, it is best to avoid direct hot water on your breasts.
5. Relax and accept
Leaking breasts pregnancy is completely normal. Although it can be uncomfortable or embarrassing at times, it is nothing to be ashamed of. Accept that your body is changing and that this is actually a beautiful sign of preparing for motherhood.
Leaking breasts while breastfeeding
Even after giving birth, you can still suffer from leaking breasts. Breasts often leak when you hear your baby, during let-down reflexes, or even spontaneously between feeds. This often occurs in the first weeks after birth, when your milk production still has to regulate. Leaking breasts breastfeeding can sometimes be abundant, especially if you have a strong milk flow. Fortunately, there are solutions such as milk collectors and drip trays from Youha.
An additional advantage of milk collectors is that you can store the collected milk hygienically and feed it to your baby later. This way, not a drop is wasted and you don't have to pump as often.
When to contact a professional?
Although leaking breasts or nipples are usually normal, there are situations in which it is good to consult a lactation consultant or midwife. Think of:
- Leaking breast that discharges blood or pus
- Painful hard spots or inflammation
- Excessive leakage that makes you feel insecure
- Uncertainty about pumping or combining breastfeeding with milk collection
Youha helps you every step of the way
At Youha, we understand that motherhood raises many questions. That is why we not only offer innovative products such as drip trays , breast milk collectors and comfortable bras , but also guidance and advice through our blogs and customer service. Our products help you feel more confident during your pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Are you suffering from leaking breasts and would you like to know more about how Youha can help you? Then take a look at our range or contact us.
Love,
Elles - Youha
