 Breastfeeding is a natural process that requires no special physical preparation for most women. You should discuss your plans to breastfeed with your obstetrician/gynecologist and have him examine your breasts as early as possible in your pregnancy and again during the third trimester. Inform him about any breastfeeding or early weaning problems you`ve had with previous children, or of any breast conditions like biopsies, breast enhancement, reduction, or other breast surgery you`ve experienced. Be sure to inform him of the chronic medical problems or illnesses you have experienced. You may be able to produce enough milk for your baby in spite of facing one or more of these conditions. However, if you have had problems before or the conditions of your breasts suggest special challenges ahead, being knowledgeable of these potential impediments can help you to overcome the impediments successfully.
Small breast size does not mean an insufficient milk supply for the baby, but women whose breasts do not enlarge at least somewhat during pregnancy may experience difficulty in producing sufficient milk. This may not be true for all mothers whose breasts remain relatively unchanged, but it is a warning sign your obstetrician should note on your prenatal record and communicate to your pediatrician, lactation specialist, and other medical personnel. This will ensure that your baby`s milk intake will be monitored carefully to guarantee that he is getting enough nourishment.
Other variation in breast size or shape should also be noted by the obstetrician. Large breasts can be discomforting, for the mother to hold the baby in a correct position to nurse, and for the baby to latch on to the breast. In cases where the breasts are of markedly unequal size, one may notice a normal supply of milk in one breast but little milk produced by the other. Tubular or elongated breasts are also problematic, because sometimes they contain an insufficient number of milk glands; breastfeeding in these cases should be closely monitored to be sure enough milk is being produced. Possessing any of the above condition may not mean that you will not be able to breast feed successfully. They simply mean that your healthcare professionals should monitor closely your early breast feeding pattern and take necessary action in case of problems.
Inverted or Flat Nipples
 If you possess inverted or flat nipples you should certainly notify your obstetrician and pediatrician. In-verted nipples retract inward toward the breast instead of protrud-ing out when the areola is gently squeezed. Flat nipples remain more or less flat when compressed. Some inverted nipples may appear normal in their uncompressed state, while others may be dimpled or of concave shape at all times. You can "test" your own nipples by gently squeezing the areola about one to two inches behind the nipple. If your nipples draw inward or remain flat, tell your obstetrician and pediatrician.
It may be difficult for the baby to properly latch on to the breast when they attempt to breast feed in case of flat nipples, and to a greater extent Inverted nipples. In some cases, in-verted nipples may actually impede the flow of milk. They are also more prone to injury of the nipple surface. Fortunately, in-verted and flat nipples sometimes become sufficiently convex, or normally protruding, on their own during pregnancy so by the time the baby is born, breastfeeding can proceed without prob-lems. If not, this characteristic should not prevent most women from successfully breastfeeding their children.
Pierced Nipples
 Generally, pierced nipples do not come in the way of breast feeding, though any fancy rings or studs should be removed prior to a breast-feeding session to prevent choking. Take care; the piercing site may be infected at the time of the piercing or later. Do not forget to inform your doctor. Such infection, as well as any scarring that may have occurred/ can make nursing more difficult. While breast feeding, some of your breast- milk may leak through the pierce hole, This is usually not a problem but if you face any problems do not hesitate to ask your pediatrician or a lactation specialist to check that your baby is nursing well.
Changes in Breasts
Physical changes in the breast are noticeable during pregnancy. The breasts enlarge, and by the third trimester may start producing colostrum. Some women experience a new tenderness in their nipples. This is normal aspect of pregnancy. Sometimes this tenderness can be aggravated by a dry climate or rough-textured clothing worn clinging on to the skin. You may use creams, lotions, "toughening-up" exercises, and other techniques to decrease nipple sensitivity and prepare for nursing, but nature`s prescription is the best.  Your body secretes a lubricating and cleansing substance through small, raised areas on the areolae called Montgomery`s glands. These secretions are enough to take care of any undue dryness. In case you find that your nipples continue to feel extremely sensitive, dry, and flaky as childbirth approaches, keeping them uncov-ered for an hour or more a day may solve the problem. If the problem still persists, apply a small amount of medical-grade lanolin available at chemist`s shop.
You may be comforted by a well-made nursing bra that snugly supports your en-larged breasts. Keep one or two nursing bras handy while you are pregnant for the hospital. A nursing bra should never be tight or constricting, and have front flaps that can be detached with one hand, while supporting the baby with the other.
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