The experience of a first pregnancy is often filled with excitement and discovery. Every physical change presents a new adventure, and the unpredictability adds to the thrill. However, during my first pregnancy, I encountered a rather alarming surprise: a lump in my armpit the size of a kiwi. Naturally, my mind raced through worst-case scenarios. Could it be cancer? A tumor?
While at the ultrasound clinic, I anxiously watched the technician as she examined the monitor. “What’s happening?” I asked. Her response provided some relief: “All I can see is breast tissue. I’ll send the results to your doctor.”
While it was comforting to learn there was no tumor, I was puzzled by the presence of breast tissue in my armpit. My OB/GYN offered little insight, explaining it was normal for breast tissue to swell during pregnancy and that it would return to its usual state post-delivery. However, I noticed that none of the other mothers-to-be seemed to be sporting a kiwi-sized lump!
Eventually, a lactation consultant friend suggested it might be an extra mammary gland. This was later confirmed after I gave birth to my son. During one of my follow-up appointments, I jokingly mentioned, “I think I have a third boob.” In true lactation consultant fashion, she examined the area beneath my hospital gown.
It turns out that milk lines extend from the armpit down to the abdomen, meaning individuals can be born with additional mammary glands or nipples along this line. Unless a visible nipple exists, it might go unnoticed until breast swelling occurs during pregnancy. The consultant even shared that just the day before, a woman in the hospital had eight “boobs”—an unexpected revelation! I felt relieved to have just the one.
She assured me that the extra gland would likely shrink after nursing, as there wasn’t a visible nipple. However, my experience took an unexpected turn when my milk came in. While nursing, I noticed that what I thought was a brown freckle was, in fact, a functioning nipple, actively leaking milk onto my shirt. Yes, I had a lactating third boob!
This led to some comical situations; instead of the typical absorbent breast pads many mothers used, I had to manage a towel in my armpit along with a large band-aid for support. And to top it off, my son was born in June—perfect tank top weather!
Between my first and second pregnancies, I opted for surgical removal of the extra gland. While some breast tissue remains and may swell again during subsequent pregnancies, at least I no longer have to deal with a nipple in that area. I’m now comfortable with my unique situation, and it offers a humorous perspective on the changes our bodies undergo during motherhood.
In conclusion, while post-pregnancy bodies may come with stretch marks and other changes, I can always look in the mirror and remind myself, “At least it doesn’t lactate!” Cheers to the unique experiences that come with motherhood, including the unexpected joys of having an extra mammary gland.
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Summary
The author shares a humorous and informative account of discovering an extra mammary gland during her first pregnancy, discussing the unexpected challenges and experiences that arise with unique bodily changes. The article reassures readers that such occurrences can be managed and often lead to amusing stories.