Some recent research by Jacky Kent and Peter Hartmann used computerized
breast measurement to plot breast growth through pre natal, pregnancy,
lactation and involution. The numbers were small (as you can well imagine -
these women deserve awards for their contribution to research!) however I
remember one women was terribly concerned about how small her breasts had
become since she had weaned and was very surprised to find that data on the
CBM showed she was in fact the same size after weaning as she was before
pregnancy. Having had such an increased size for so long (I presume)
affected how she perceived her breasts after weaning, but had no actual
basis in fact. Where there is a change in breast volume between pre natal
and weaning I believe this would be associated with an overall loss in body
fat, that of course will also affect the breast.

Regarding lost alveoli due to mastitis or engorgement - this will only
affect the current lactation. Even though this destruction occurs there is
no reason why remaining glandular tissue cannot cope with milk production
requirements (autocrine response). Any temporary loss of supply during/after
mastitis/engorgement is thought to be associated with the temporary loss of
lactose through the paracellular pathway.  After involution glandular tissue
atrophies and then during subsequent pregnancies alveolar growth starts
anew.

Regards
Cathy Fetherston RM MSc IBCLC
Perth Western Australia

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