Yes, Your Boobs Leak During Pregnancy & It's OK

Pregnancy brings a number of changes to your boobs, and some of these alterations can take some women by surprise. You probably know that from the very first days you might experience tenderness and pain in your breasts, and you know that growth will kick in at some point (you might even be looking forward to it). You may not realize, however, that your milk making factory gets to work long before your baby is born. If you're wondering if your boobs will leak during pregnancy, there's a chance they might. It's perfectly normal if it happens to you, and it's also perfectly normal if it doesn't.

Typically breasts will start leaking in the third trimester, according to Baby Center. You may see some drops of a thick, yellowish fluid called colostrum. Fit Pregnancy noted that your breasts are producing colostrum as early as 14 weeks, so it's not unheard of for some women to see leakage at that point or even earlier. You'll want to be prepared, because it can happen at inopportune times. Parents noted that your boobs might leak during sex, because the stimulation can trigger the milk let-down reflex.

Leaky boobs, while a nuisance, come with one big potential perk— you can hang on to that liquid gold to give to your baby once he or she is born. It's packed with antibodies and nutrients that are easy for your baby to digest, according to The Bump. Additionally, La Leche League International (LLLI) noted that pregnant moms can start storing colostrum at 36 weeks, and you can bring it to the hospital frozen. Having a stash ready to go can be especially helpful if your baby isn't able to nurse at first for any reason.

Although leaks are normal, Healthy Women noted that if the fluid leaking from your breasts has a bad smell or has any blood in it, it's a good idea to run it by your doctor. And remember, if your boobs aren't leaking, there's no reason to be alarmed. I didn't experience a single leak while pregnant with my daughter, but I went on to have an ample supply of breastmilk.