It is a common notion that breastfeeding will lead to unflattering or unattractive changes in the shape of the breast. In fact, it is this belief that keeps many women from breastfeeding. Unfortunately the health benefits of breast milk for a developing infant are many supported by volumes of scientific evidence. No formula can do for baby what breast milk does.

A study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal (Vol 28, Issue 5, pages 534-7) casts doubt on the widely held belief that breastfeeding leads to ugly breasts. Drs. Rinker, Veneracion and Walsh reviewed the charts of 93 women who sought aesthetic breast surgery after pregnancy for breast ptosis (droop).

Just over half of women reported breastfeeding while the rest did not. While several things correlated with an increased occurrence of breast ptosis like older age, smoking, and higher body mass index, breastfeeding was not correlated.

In other words, in women who have decided to have a baby, breastfeeding does not affect the aesthetics or look of the breasts. Other factors can affect breast appearance after pregnancy, including the pregnancy itself, but breast feeding is not one of them.

While a larger, prospective study (one that follows women over time rather than looking back into medical charts) would provide better clinical data, new mothers that are concerned about what might happen to the appearance of their breasts if they breastfeed may not need to worry. When you consider the many health benefits of breast milk for baby, the decision to breastfeed should be even easier.