Overview
Breast hypoplasia is something that you’re born with, and as you grow the breast tissue does not fully develop. You might not even know your breasts are underdeveloped until you become pregnant and have a child. During pregnancy, hypoplastic breasts may not change very much. Then, after the birth of your baby, they may not fill with breast milk.
Is Breastfeeding an Option?
Yes, it is still possible to breastfeed even if you have hypoplastic breasts. Depending on the actual amount of developed breast tissue that you have, you may be able to make enough breast milk for your child, but it could be a challenge. Hypoplastic breasts can cause a true low milk supply or even full lactation failure. So, there is a good possibility that you will need to supplement your baby. It’s also possible that one breast is hypoplastic and the other has enough milk-making tissue to produce a sufficient milk supply. If that’s the case, you can nurse your baby from just one side, and that would be perfectly fine. But, even if you aren’t able to make enough breast milk for your baby, you can still breastfeed. Any amount of breast milk that you give to your child will be beneficial. The time spent at your breast also provides your baby with comfort, security, and that special bond created through breastfeeding.
Tips
If you have underdeveloped breasts and want to breastfeed, here are some tips to help make it more successful.
Breast Augmentation
Some women with hypoplastic breasts decide to have breast augmentation. If you’ve had breast surgery, be sure to tell your doctor. If you haven’t had breast surgery but you’re considering it, and you think you may want to breastfeed, it’s better to hold off until you have completed your family and weaned your last child before going forward. Breast surgery could further interfere with your ability to make breast milk.
