Why are my areola so big while breastfeeding?

Understanding Areola Size During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a transformative experience for many women, not just in terms of nurturing a newborn but also in how their bodies change. One common concern among breastfeeding mothers is the size of their areolas, which can appear larger during this period.
Natural Variability in Areola Size
The areola, the pigmented area surrounding the nipple, varies significantly among individuals. According to experts, there is no “normal” size for areolas; they can range from the size of a penny to that of a plate. This variability is influenced by genetics, hormonal changes, and life stages, including puberty, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
Changes During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, hormonal fluctuations play a crucial role in altering the size and appearance of the areola. As the body prepares for breastfeeding, the areola may darken and expand. This change is part of the body’s natural adaptation to facilitate nursing, making it easier for the baby to latch on. The enlargement of the areola can also be attributed to the development of Montgomery’s tubercles—small bumps that can become more pronounced during this time, contributing to the overall size.
No Cause for Concern
It’s important to note that there is no such thing as an “abnormally large” areola. Medical professionals emphasize that all shapes and sizes are normal, and changes in size during breastfeeding are entirely natural. Many women experience these changes, and they often revert to their pre-pregnancy size after breastfeeding concludes.
Psychological and Emotional Aspects
While the physical changes are normal, they can sometimes lead to feelings of self-consciousness. Many women worry about how their bodies look during this time, but it’s essential to remember that these changes are temporary and serve a functional purpose in nurturing a child. Embracing these changes can help alleviate concerns and promote a more positive body image during a time that can be both beautiful and challenging.
In conclusion, if you’re noticing that your areolas are larger while breastfeeding, rest assured that this is a common and natural occurrence. The body is simply adapting to its new role, and these changes are part of the incredible journey of motherhood.

Why are my areolas so big when breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, areolas tend to become darker in color and get larger as the breasts increase in size. With breastfeeding, the Montgomery glands often become raised, making areolas look larger. After the pregnancy and breastfeeding are over, the color, shape, and size usually go back to what they were before.

How do I reduce my areola size?

Areola reduction surgery is a relatively simple day surgery procedure that can reduce the diameter of one or both of your areolas. The excess pigmented skin is simply cut away so that a smaller and more appropriately-shaped areola is left behind. The height of your nipples can also be reduced, if desired.

How big is too big of an areola?

The areola of sexually mature women averages around 1.5 inches but can be as big as 4 inches. Lactating women and women with particularly large breasts may have even larger areolas. The size and shape of areola and nipples vary greatly amongst females.

Will my areolas shrink if I lose weight?

As breasts get larger due to increased weight, areolas tend to grow as well, and they may also shrink if breasts get smaller because of weight loss, says Dr. Chen. This correlates with the increase or decrease in fat deposits in your body as part of your weight gain or loss.

How do you breastfeed with a large areola?

But the size of the areola shouldn’t impact your ability to breastfeed. When babies breastfeed, they take the nipple and some areola into their mouths. It’s fine if part of the areola doesn’t fit into a baby’s mouth. However, it’s important for a baby to have the entire nipple in their mouth.

What to do if areola is too big for baby?

Discuss the use of special devices, such as a nipple shield, with a lactation consultant before using them to help with latching. Very large nipples can make it hard for the baby to get enough of the areola into their mouth to compress the milk ducts and get enough milk.

Does areola size go down after breastfeeding?

“These changes happen in order to help your baby more easily find and latch onto your breast,” says Prezas. But after you’re done breastfeeding, your nipples, areolas, and Montgomery glands go back to their pre-breastfeeding state. Stretch marks will also lighten over time, though they won’t ever fully disappear.

How can I make my breast areola smaller?

Areola reduction is usually performed under local anaesthetic and takes about one hour. In some cases, general anaesthetic may be used. Areola reduction surgery is performed by removing a circular area of the outer brown area of the areola.

Do large areolas mean anything?

Areolas come in many sizes and colors, and it’s not uncommon for them to change over time. While surgery and topical products may reduce their appearance, large areolas aren’t a cause for medical concern. If you want to see average abs, just look around.

When you stop breastfeeding, what happens to your body?

Some might experience headaches or migraines, while others feel exhausted or even dizzy immediately after weaning. Another common post-weaning issue? Acne. Big hormone changes can really throw your body for a loop.