Breast Changes
Another early sign of pregnancy is the changes in the breasts because conception increases the female hormone levels. Women can feel their breasts swell, tingly, and sore one or two weeks after conception. The breasts may likewise feel fuller, tender, or heavier. It could take weeks for women to get used to these changes in their breasts due to the higher hormone levels. As their bodies adjust, the pain they feel in their breasts will slowly decrease.
Another breast change pregnant women will notice is the darkening of the areas around their nipples, called the areolas. They can appear larger and darker about one to two weeks after conception. They may also notice little bumps at the edge of the areolas and visible veins. Doctors call them Montgomery tubercles. Their function is to lubricate the nipples and get them ready for the baby to nurse.
Women do not have to worry if their breasts feel sore during pregnancy. The feeling is temporary. It will disappear once the body adjusts to the hormonal changes. However, they should be ready as their breasts will be larger, so they need to change their bra size.
