How to Lift Sagging Breasts from Breastfeeding

In the fourth part of our series on how your breasts change through motherhood, we explore a concern many mothers have — sagging breasts. Some may refer to this stage as “sagging breasts”, but we prefer to think of it as “relaxed.” Seriously, after all that work, they deserve to relax a bit. Read on for tips on how to support sagging or relaxed breasts shapes. 

Oh, the many joys of motherhood. For many new-mamas, breastfeeding is a time of adjustment. You probably expected to ride some highs and lows (thank you, hormones), but there’s one specific low no one may have told you to expect—breast changes! Call them relaxed, teardrop, or bell-shaped, there’s a good chance that post-breastfeeding moms will experience some changes in breast shape and “perkiness” (it even has a medical term… Ptosis). We’re talking mom-to-mom here… and recommending the best bras for sagging breasts.

What causes sagging breasts?

A more relaxed breast shape is a natural shift after breastfeeding. That’s because the fatty and connective breast tissue change in the process. Some women’s breasts stay large (or get larger) and some shrink. This can be due to a combination of weight loss, body type, hormones, genetics, and maternal age.

During breastfeeding, breasts also become more dense, getting bigger with milk production, and stretching over time. And once milk production stops, breasts can shrink and head a bit more… ahem, south.

What can I do to fix saggy breasts after breastfeeding?

A lot of women ask what they could do to help lift sagging breasts. Well, Mama. There’s not a whole lot we can do to “fix” or prevent breast sagging after nursing. However, we can take care of and love our breasts by making sure they’re resting in the most supportive bras. The good news is that there are a ton of great bra styles to choose from, so we never have to choose between comfort and a gorgeous look.

What is the Best Bra for Sagging Breasts?

Underwire bras are great for offering much-needed support. While some flinch at the idea of underwires, once you’re in the right bra size, underwires can help support, shape, and provide uplift for our breasts. There are a variety of different types of bras that you can select from. See some of our recommended bra styles below:

Our 24/7™ Classic T-Shirt Bra is a dependable everyday option.
For a little more coverage and extra supportive straps, the 24/7™ Perfect Coverage Bra is our go-to style.
If you’re looking for a comfortable lift, the 24/7™ Classic Uplift Plunge Bra is our take on the classic push up bra.
And for a touch of lace and that extra confidence boost, the 24/7™ Lace Balconette Bra is a flirty option.

If you’re looking for some extra support while exercising, we offer several great sports bra options whether you’re doing gentle movements or higher impact workouts. It’s completely safe for women to wear sports bras during pregnancy and nursing as long as they fit well and are comfortable, so choose the best option for you if you’re looking to stay active.

Some other tips to help give you a lift:
1. Invest in a supportive bra during pregnancy and during nursing.
During pregnancy, be sure to invest in a supportive bra that can expand as your chest grows. Wearing a bra that’s comfortable and supportive will help you look and feel your best during this time. We recommend sizing up a band size so you have room to grow. During breastfeeding, a great nursing bra is also a definite must. You’ll need easy access to your breasts as well as support and flexibility as your breast size shifts throughout the day.

2. Breastfeed in a comfortable position.
When nursing, utilize pillows to prop up your baby to a comfortable height that will not require you to lean over or angle your breasts downwards. This will help to reduce any sagging that comes with drooping your breasts downwards regularly for daily feedings.

3. Healthy weight gain and weight loss are key factors.
Your doctor can help determine if you’re in a healthy range (and not gaining too much—or too little!). Also avoid post-baby crash dieting. Losing too much weight too fast can help contribute to sagging breasts. A healthy diet and light exercise (when your body is ready) is all you need. Remember: slow and steady wins the race!

4. Slowly and gradually wean your baby.
When the time comes, weaning your baby slowly will give your body a chance to adjust properly. Reduce nursing sessions gradually can help mitigate stress on your breasts.

5. Incorporate upper-body workouts.
When your body is ready, try incorporating upper-body workouts to your exercise regimen on a regular basis. While exercising will not directly impact your breasts since they are composed of fatty tissue, not muscle, it can help strengthen and firm up the chest muscles underneath your breasts to give you a lift.

6. How to find your bra size again post-nursing.
After nursing, your breasts can be a different size than they were before you got pregnant. It’s important that you have a bra that fits you, and not the other way around. Be sure you’re wearing your correct size by taking our 60-second Fit Finder Quiz. With over 78 sizes—including half sizes—we’ve got you covered.

Oh, and in case no one told you today? Mama, you’re a rockstar.