Breastfeeding With Large Breasts

If you have very large breasts - whether they start out that way or they get very big during pregnancy and the first few weeks postpartum - you may have some concerns about breastfeeding. Breastfeeding with large breasts can be more difficult for first time moms. It can be a challenge to find acomfortable position where you can see your baby's mouth and your nipple.

This can make it harder to get the baby latched on correctly, and it may be awkward and uncomfortable to hold your breasts and your baby, especially if you are in pain from the delivery. Plus, you may be worried that your breasts are so big that they will block your baby's nose and you will suffocate your child while he's nursing.

All of these concerns are normal. However, with a little help in the beginning, you can get over your worries and get breastfeeding off to a good start. Once you're feeling more comfortable, your baby is latching on well, and your milk supply is established, breastfeeding will be easier.

Breastfeeding Problems Related To Bigger Breasts

On occasion, even a woman with large breasts can have a problem with a low milk supply. Certain conditions such as PCOS, obesity, hypothyroidism, and insulin resistance can affect the production of breast milk. Just because you have big breasts, it doesn't mean that you will automatically have a large milk supply. Be sure to have your baby monitored by a doctor to ensure that he or she is gaining weight and growing at a consistent rate.

On the other hand, large breasts have the potential to produce too much breast milk. An overabundant milk supply can cause issues for both you and your baby. You may experience breast engorgement and pain. Severe engorgement can make your breasts hard and flatten your nipples. This can make it very difficult for your baby to latch on.

Your baby may also gain weight very quickly, gag and choke from a strong milk let-down, and become fussy and gassy.

Breast surgery is another issue that could cause breastfeeding problems. If you have had any type of breast surgery, tell your doctor. In many cases, breastfeeding with implants can be done successfully. However, any surgery that involves cutting the nerves and the milk ducts surrounding the areola is likely to have a negative affect on breastfeeding. Your milk supply and your baby's growth should be monitored.

11 Tips For Breastfeeding With Very Large Breasts 1. Take a breastfeeding class while you're pregnant to learn how to latch your baby on in different positions and holds. Knowing this information ahead of time can help you to feel more comfortable and confident once your baby arrives.

2. Large, full breasts are heavy. Wear a supportive nursing bra to support the extra weight of your breasts and help to prevent back pain.

3. Ask for help getting started with breastfeeding. Learning to latch your baby on to your breast correctly can be more difficult with large breasts. Have a nurse, doula, lactation consultant, friend, or family member help you to get into a good position and get your baby latched on well right from the first breastfeeding. It won't take long before you can do it on your own.

4. If your breasts are hard and full, use a breast pump or hand express some of your breast milk before you begin breastfeeding. This will soften your breast and make it easier for your baby to latch on.

5. Breastfeed in a comfortable position and use bed pillows or a nursing pillow for support.The football hold or the side-lying position are good choices for moms with larger breasts.

6. Try holding your breast using the c-hold. This hold makes it easier to support your breast as you latch your baby on.

7. If you are worried that your breast will block your baby's nose, try an asymmetrical latch. This latch technique lifts the baby's nose off of your breast.

8. If your breasts are very large due to severe engorgement or an overabundant milk supply, talk to your doctor so that you can treat those issues.

9. Have your baby's doctor monitor his growth. You want to be sure that your baby is getting enough breast milk, but you also want to make sure that he is not gaining too much weight too quickly.

10. Larger breasts may be able to hold more breast milk. As your baby gets older, she may get more milk at each feeding and be able to wait a little longer between feedings. Pay attention to your baby's hunger cues and weight gain to prevent overfeeding her.

11. Get support and reassurance. Talk about your concerns with your doctor, a lactation consultant or a breastfeeding support group.

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