Breastfeeding with Big Boobs: Concerns, Holds, and Tips

Does heartburn in pregnancy really predict a hairy newborn? Does more severe morning sickness guarantee a daughter? Does having fuller breasts mean you’ll automatically produce more milk?

While some old wives’ tales sound unlikely, other ideas seem reasonable. If your breasts are large you might assume milk supply won’t be an issue — after all, bigger breasts look like they should help with nursing, right?

Surprisingly, larger breasts can actually introduce extra challenges when breastfeeding. While every nursing journey is individual, there are certain issues that tend to occur more often for people with bigger breasts.

Curious what your breast size could mean for supply and latch? Worried your baby won’t latch properly on fuller breasts? Don’t fret — below we cover the issues you may face and practical tips to help you breastfeed comfortably with larger breasts.

What difficulties can arise when nursing with big breasts?

Various obstacles may present themselves for those with larger breasts during nursing. Common concerns include:

Fear of covering the baby’s nose

Many caregivers worry that a large breast could block their baby’s nose or even trap the infant’s head beneath the breast, preventing breathing.

Finding a suitable hold usually reduces this anxiety, but when you’re holding a fragile newborn the mere thought of causing harm can increase stress around feeds.

Neck, shoulder or back discomfort

Because bigger breasts tend to sit lower, you might be prone to bringing the breast down to the baby rather than bringing the baby up to your breast. That habit can quickly lead to neck, shoulder, and back strain.

You may also hunch forward during feeds and have more weight to support on your chest, which can increase musculoskeletal pain.

Latch problems

For an effective latch, a baby needs to take a good portion of the areola into their mouth. With very full breasts a tiny infant may struggle to open wide enough for a deep latch.

Moreover, getting into a position that allows a secure latch can be trickier with larger breasts. (Keep reading for suggestions on positions that often help.)

Obstructed view of the latch

Bigger breasts can block your sightline for watching the latch and monitoring a feed. Depending on the baby’s head angle, it may be hard to see subtle comforting signs like the chin tipping or gentle nose flaring.

And the usual breastfeeding issues anyone might face

Those with larger breasts are still breastfeeding parents and can experience common problems such as:

• mastitis
• blocked ducts
• thrush
• engorgement
• sore or cracked nipples

Of course, you may not encounter any of these issues — many people with large breasts breastfeed without trouble.

Does larger breast size mean more milk?

Breast size does not determine how much milk you’ll produce. How can that be? The number of milk ducts and the amount of glandular tissue are not directly tied to overall breast volume. People vary in the proportion of ducts to fatty tissue, regardless of cup size.

This means people with large breasts can experience both oversupply and low supply issues just as those with smaller breasts can.

If you’re concerned about low supply, there are several strategies to boost milk production, including:

• Spending skin-to-skin time with your baby.
• Nursing frequently (especially early on) and ensuring breasts are well drained — supply follows demand.
• Pumping after feeds to increase breast stimulation.
• Eating galactagogues — foods known to help raise breast milk.

If you need to reduce or stop supply, options include:

• Pumping or nursing less often and using stored milk or formula.
• Placing chilled cabbage leaves inside your bra.
• Discussing medications or supplements that decrease milk with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider.

Which holds work best for larger breasts?

Certain positions can make nursing with fuller breasts easier. Common helpful holds include:

Side-lying

Lying on your side is a favorite for people recovering from cesarean birth or anyone who is tired.

Side-lying can improve your view of the latch and make it simpler to manage your breast during feeding. It’s also gentler on the back, neck, and shoulders since you’re reclined and supported.

You can watch this position demonstrated here.

Football or clutch hold

In this upright position, the baby is tucked along your side (like tucking a football under your arm).

This hold gives you more control over the baby’s head and body during latch and can be easier to support than a cross-cradle position.

See a video of the clutch hold here.

Laid-back breastfeeding (biological nurturing)

Reclining and allowing the baby to lead the latch can be very effective. This baby-led approach often results in a wide, successful latch and is comfortable for tired caregivers.

The reclined position supports your neck, back, and shoulders and often encourages the infant to open wide for a proper latch.

Watch an example of this technique here.

Regardless of the hold you choose, a “C hold” with one hand can assist latch: curl two fingers on top of the breast and thumb underneath (or the opposite, depending on baby orientation) to gently compress the breast so more areola is available for the baby to take into their mouth.

Practical tips to make nursing with large breasts simpler

• Use a mirror: If your breasts obstruct your view of the latch, a mirror can help you see what’s happening.
• Prop baby up with pillows: To avoid lowering your breast to the infant (which often causes neck and back pain and a poor latch), use a nursing pillow or ordinary pillows to raise your baby to a comfortable level.
• Support your breast with a small blanket or washcloth: Rolling up a small blanket or using a washcloth under the breast can lift and support it so you don’t have to hold the weight while helping your baby latch.
• Choose a supportive bra: A well-fitting nursing bra that doesn’t dig into breast tissue can prevent clogged ducts. Consider a bra that doubles as a hands-free pumping bra if you plan to pump often.
• Consider snacks that support nursing: For helpful, nourishing options see resources on breastfeeding snacks that can complement your routine.

Takeaway

Although people with large breasts may face certain challenges, larger size doesn’t automatically mean breastfeeding will be difficult. Many caregivers with fuller breasts nurse successfully without complications.

If you do encounter problems, don’t give up. Lactation consultants, peer support groups, and local services can provide guidance and practical help to support your breastfeeding journey.

Breastfeeding hotlines and resources

• National Women’s Health and Breastfeeding Helpline: 1-800-994-9662
• La Leche League USA: +1-800-LALECHE (525-3243) or find a support group near you
• International Lactation Consultant Association: Find a lactation consultant
• United States Lactation Consultant Association: Find an IBCLC