Does breastfeeding affect your armpits?

The Surprising Connection Between Breastfeeding and Armpit Changes
Breastfeeding is often celebrated for its numerous benefits to both mother and child, but it can also bring about unexpected physical changes. One such phenomenon that has gained attention recently is the swelling of breast tissue in the armpits, a condition that some mothers experience during lactation. This occurrence, while not widely discussed, is more common than many might think.
Understanding the Phenomenon
When a woman begins breastfeeding, her body undergoes significant hormonal changes that prepare it for milk production. These changes can lead to swelling in the breast tissue, which may extend into the armpit area. This swelling is primarily due to the engorgement of milk ducts, which can sometimes become so full that they create noticeable lumps in the armpits.
A viral TikTok video highlighted this issue when a mother shared her experience of having lumps in her armpits after delivering triplets. This visual representation sparked conversations about a condition that many women may experience but feel hesitant to discuss.
The Mechanics of Milk Ducts
The anatomy of the breast includes a network of milk ducts that can extend into the surrounding areas, including the armpits. During breastfeeding, these ducts can become engorged with milk, leading to painful swelling and even the potential for milk to leak from the armpits. This phenomenon, while alarming to some, is a natural response of the body as it adjusts to the demands of nursing.
Nurse Barb Dehn, a health expert, explains that this swelling can be attributed to the body’s efforts to produce and store milk efficiently. As the body adapts to breastfeeding, it may take time for the milk ducts to regulate, resulting in temporary discomfort and swelling in the underarm area.
Other Related Changes
In addition to swelling, breastfeeding mothers may also experience changes in body odor and increased sweating. These changes are part of the body’s re-regulation process as it sheds excess water weight and adjusts to hormonal fluctuations. While these symptoms can be bothersome, they are typically temporary and resolve as the body stabilizes post-pregnancy.
Conclusion
The connection between breastfeeding and changes in the armpits is a fascinating aspect of maternal health that deserves more attention. While the swelling of breast tissue in the armpits can be surprising and even uncomfortable, it is a natural part of the breastfeeding journey for many women. As awareness grows, it is hoped that more mothers will feel empowered to discuss their experiences and seek support during this transformative time.

Why do I have pain in my armpit area?

Armpit pain is typically a sign of a strained muscle, minor infection, or skin condition. Occasionally, it can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, such as cancer. Some people may have rashes, boils, blisters, or sores on their skin, while others may have no visible symptoms.

Why do my armpits smell so bad when breastfeeding?

Milk production
Alagia. In fact, during breastfeeding, people can excrete different pheromones—mix that with a baby’s saliva, and it can cause an odor that may be new and unfamiliar to the lactating person.

How do you know if you have mastitis in your armpit?

Increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in an area on a breast. Red streaks extending from a breast. Drainage of pus coming from a breast. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or armpit.

What does non-lactational mastitis look like?

Women who have not been pregnant and lactating (producing breast milk) will have a type called periductal mastitis. Symptoms of mastitis can include: a red, swollen area on your breast that may feel hot and painful to touch. a breast lump or area of hardness on your breast.

How long does postpartum BO last?

Like so many other aspects of the postpartum period, how long postpartum body odor lasts can vary and ranges anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

How to get rid of postpartum armpit odor?

How to treat body odour yourself

1. wash your armpits, groin and feet at least twice a day with soap and dry thoroughly.
2. shave your armpits regularly.
3. use antiperspirants and deodorants.
4. change and wash your clothes regularly.
5. wear natural fabrics like cotton, wool and silk.
6. wear antibacterial socks.

What causes lumps under armpits while breastfeeding?

breast tissues extend up to the armpit so tender, swollen, or enlarged lymph nodes can be felt under one of both of the arms. The reason for these swollen lymph nodes is an infection, engorgement, or mastitis.

Why do my armpits hurt when breastfeeding?

Swollen, tender, or enlarged lymph nodes may be felt under one or both of your arms. Breast tissue extends to the armpit, so you may notice a swollen lymph node as a result of engorgement or an infection, like mastitis. See your doctor if you’re concerned about a swollen lymph node.

Can breastfeeding cause swollen lymph nodes in armpit?

During lactation, enlarged intramammary and/or axillary lymph nodes may be seen. The hyperplastic nodes are felt to be related to the bacterial seeding of the nipple by the infant during breast feeding. These nodes are typically seen in the upper outer quadrant of the breast and axilla.

How do you get rid of swollen armpits from breastfeeding?

Apply ice or cold packs to the tender area. If you are engorged, consider doing lymphatic drainage—a very gentle, light yet firm touch, with fingertips flat to the skin in the armpit area and upper chest.