@theorganisedmama_ wears our Dakota Bra
In This Article
Why Do Breasts Change After Pregnancy?
How Does Breast Shape Change Postpartum?
Factors That Affect Your Breast Shape and Size
Will My Breasts Stay Bigger, or Will They Shrink?
How to Support Your Breasts After Pregnancy?
When Will My Breasts Stop Changing?
Support Your Body Through Every Change
Just like pregnancies, no two postpartum journeys are the same, and neither are two pairs of breasts! In fact, some of us don’t even have two breasts the same within our own pair. (Yep, that’s normal!)
If you're here because your breasts suddenly look or feel different after pregnancy and breastfeeding, you're not alone. One of the most common things we hear from new mums is: "I knew my breasts would change... but I didn’t know how much!"
Breast shape and size changes can be surprising and sometimes confusing. But don’t worry, we’re here to talk all things boobs, what’s normal, what to look out for, and how to keep your girls comfortable and supported along the way.
@reign.and.dash wears our Stella pumping bra
Why Do Breasts Change After Pregnancy?
The short answer? Hormones, milk production, and time.
During pregnancy, your body prepares for breastfeeding, which means your breasts will:
- Grow larger as milk ducts expand
- Feel fuller and firmer (especially when your milk comes in)
- Become more sensitive due to hormonal shifts
Then, after pregnancy and breastfeeding, things start to settle. Your hormone levels drop, your milk supply dries up, and your breast tissue adjusts. Some women keep a little extra fullness, while others return to their pre-pregnancy size—or even a little smaller.
While most postpartum breast changes are completely normal, some symptoms should be checked by a doctor, including:
- ‘Orange peel’ dimpling of the skin
- Swelling, redness, or tenderness unrelated to engorgement
- Unusual nipple discharge not related to lactation
- Heaviness, pain, or burning in the breast
Tip: A well-fitted nursing bra can help keep your breasts supported and comfortable. Check out the Della Nursing Bra for extra lift and shape.
@barbarabritobgb wears our Amaya Sleep Bra
How Does Breast Shape Change Postpartum?
The breasts you had before pregnancy might not be the same ones you have now—and that’s okay! Here are some of the most common postpartum breast shapes:
- Athletic or relaxed
Smaller breasts with less fatty tissue may feel softer after breastfeeding.
- Asymmetrical
One breast may be significantly larger than the other (this is totally normal!).
- Bell-shaped
Common in larger breasts, where the tissue is fuller at the bottom and may stretch over time.
- East-West
If your nipples now point slightly outward, this is a completely normal change.
- Wide-spaced
A little extra space between the breasts post-breastfeeding can be expected.
- Conical
More common in smaller breasts, this shape features an ‘everted nipple’ creating a cone-like appearance.
Looking for extra support? The Amora Tonal Lace Trim Bra is perfect for bringing breasts back toward the midline.
@casadecrow wears our Sara Sleep Bra
Factors That Affect Your Breast Shape and Size
Several factors influence postpartum breast changes, including:
- Genetics
Your mum’s and grandmother’s postpartum breast changes may give you some clues!
- Weight fluctuations
Rapid weight gain or loss can impact breast tissue and elasticity.
- Breastfeeding
Nursing (especially multiple babies!) can affect breast fullness and shape.
- Hormonal conditions
Conditions like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) can impact breast size.
- Mastitis
This common breastfeeding condition can cause swelling and changes in tissue firmness.
Producing Colostrum & Breastfeeding Changes
Your body starts producing colostrum (the first, nutrient-rich form of breastmilk) early in pregnancy. Some women leak, while others don’t, either way, it’s completely normal!
Once you give birth, the glandular tissue in your breasts increases to prepare for milk production. You might also notice darker areolas, this is nature’s way of helping newborns find their food source!
Once breastfeeding begins, your breasts will initially swell with engorgement and may decrease in size around the six-week mark. When you stop breastfeeding, expect another decrease as the milk-producing tissues shrink.
@haileyhavana wears our Karla Bra
Will My Breasts Stay Bigger, or Will They Shrink?
Some women keep a little extra volume, while others return to their pre-baby size (or even smaller). A few things can influence this:
- Weight retention
If you hold onto a little extra weight postpartum, your breasts might stay fuller.
- Breastfeeding duration
Extended nursing can lead to more gradual changes in size.
- Genetics
Your body has its own way of adjusting postpartum.
@mumlife.emma.may wears our Harper Bra
How to Support Your Breasts After Pregnancy?
Your breasts have been through a lot, so let’s show them some love!
Wear a Supportive Bra
A well-fitted postpartum or nursing bra reduces strain and supports changes in size. The Leona Seamless Nursing Bra is a great option for wide-spacing breasts with extra contour support.
Stay Hydrated & Moisturise
Keeping your skin hydrated can maintain elasticity and minimize stretch marks. The Mere Botanicals Stretch Mark Cream is a nourishing option for soft, supple skin.
Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods
A diet rich in collagen, healthy fats, and protein supports breast health and skin elasticity. Avocados hydrate, nuts and seeds provide essential fatty acids, and omega-3-rich fish like salmon reduce inflammation. Staying hydrated and eating well can help your body recover and maintain breast firmness postpartum.
Gentle Chest Exercises
Strengthening the pectoral muscles underneath your breasts can improve posture and provide natural support. Try chest presses, push-ups, and yoga stretches to tone your upper body.
Stock Up on Breast Pads
Leaking at an inconvenient moment? Keep a stash of breast pads to protect your clothes and avoid discomfort.
@pebz67 wears our Embrace Sleep Bra
When Will My Breasts Stop Changing?
- First few months postpartum, the most noticeable changes happen here.
- 6–12 months after weaning, breasts gradually settle into their new normal.
- Long-term, your breast shape may continue adjusting over time.
Your body knows what it’s doing, so give it time to adjust.
Support Your Body Through Every Change
Postpartum breast changes are completely normal. Whether your breasts are bigger, softer, perkier, or a little more “lived in,” the most important thing is to feel comfortable and supported.
At Queen Bee, we’ve got you covered with nursing and postpartum essentials to help you feel your best.
Find your perfect fit with our nursing bra range and embrace this beautiful new chapter with confidence!
