Has anyone used breast pumps to aid breast growth during HRT?

[jackiefox5585]

Hi everyone, I am not sure if this is the right place for this topic. If this is inappropriate or violates any rules, please delete it.

I am curious if anyone has anecdotal information or personal experience using breast pumps to supplement breast growth during HRT.

I am aware that this is medically unfounded and there are no studies proving it works. However, I have heard from some people who swear by it, claiming that the lack of broad acceptance is because it requires years of consistency, not just weeks.

I am interested in whether this actually works for tissue expansion and blood flow, or if it is a myth. For those who have tried it:

Did you see any permanent results?

How did you manage the safety aspect? (I have heard you must avoid high suction to prevent skin damage/bruising).

I would love to hear your experiences or if you decided it wasn't worth the effort.

[Lori Dee ✅]

There is a member here who has asked about this.

I talked to my Gynecologist about it. She said that stimulating the breasts does not make them grow; hormones do that.

If the hormones estradiol and progesterone are high enough, equivalent to pregnancy levels for months (6-9), the breasts will swell as the alveolar tissue develops.

She cautioned that it is not practical to maintain hormone levels at that level indefinitely, and a common complaint comes from women after pregnancy. Since the breasts swell during pregnancy, after pregnancy, they uh... "unswell" and any gain is lost. Not totally, but enough to be disappointing.

Breast size is determined by genetics, hormones, and body fat. Anything else will only produce temporary results.

[jackiefox5585]

There is a member here who has asked about this.

I talked to my Gynecologist about it. She said that stimulating the breasts does not make them grow; hormones do that.

If the hormones estradiol and progesterone are high enough, equivalent to pregnancy levels for months (6-9), the breasts will swell as the alveolar tissue develops.

She cautioned that it is not practical to maintain hormone levels at that level indefinitely, and a common complaint comes from women after pregnancy. Since the breasts swell during pregnancy, after pregnancy, they uh... "unswell" and any gain is lost. Not totally, but enough to be disappointing.

Breast size is determined by genetics, hormones, and body fat. Anything else will only produce temporary results.

Thank you for your input. I'd like to remain confident that other options exist, but its important to be realistic. But, we are always learning new things about the human body and there are already a number of ways to artificially enhance it. So I like to keep an open mind about what is possible.

Though thank you for the caution about progesterone. I heard of trans girls cycling them but I never knew why. This makes total sense.

[ChrissyRyan]

No.  Not me.

I have not used breast pumps.

I do use a pump for my bicycle tires.  No lactation from the tires.  But the tires get inflated, noticeably bigger.


Chrissy

[Allie Jayne]

I have read a few accounts where people were successful in increasing breast size during transition by using a breast pump, but.. They were pumping for many hours each day, and not long after they stopped, their breasts shrank back to the size they likely would have been with HRT alone. A lot of effort and discomfort for no lasting benefit.

Hugs,

Allie

[Charlotte_Ringwood]

It's something I've looked at but like suggested there is little to back up any gains. I have considered elevating hormones to pregnancy levels at some point which I understand as pointed out is mostly temporary. There is a lot of contradictory information particularly with reference to Estrogen levels, Progesterone and breast growth too. I think it's just under researched in trans people.

Still curious to push my levels up sometime to mimic pregnancy and then would probably pump. But that's something for later if I decide to!

Charlotte 😻

[Allie Jayne]

Charlotte, There is no overall formula as we are all different. It seems different hormone levels work for different people, so more isn't always better. There are all manner of theories out there from low dose to high doses, breaking up methods with pills for short periods to stimulate receptors, and adding progesterone , but what works for one doesn't often work for others.

There is advice that progesterone matures breasts, rounding them out and maturing ducts, but mature breasts likely won't continue to grow, so starting progesterone too early (before Tanner Stage 3 is attained) may actually hinder development.

Broadly, you need to find what works for you, and your doctor should be able to guide you. This usually means some experimenting with different methods and levels until something works, so trying multiple things at once may prevent you identifying the critical factor.

In the end, genetics seems to be the biggest influencer, after that, the skill of your doctor will be important.

Hugs,

Allie

[Charlotte_Ringwood]

Hi Allie, totally agree as people try all sorts and mileage varies a lot. Genetics is no guarantee either though as plenty with larger breast sizes in the family don't achieve anywhere near the same. It's likely a case as to if your genetics supports growth at a later age maybe. I believe age can also influence results with younger generally getting better growth. But there lacks quality studies for sure.

I have avoided progesterone as I'm early on, except that my blocker is cyproterone acetate which itself has progestin effects. Unfortunately I don't have any medical support so I'm entirely controlling my HRT regime. So far I think I'm ok as 7 months I'm at B cup and progressing well.

Charlotte 😻

[jackiefox5585]

Charlotte, There is no overall formula as we are all different. It seems different hormone levels work for different people, so more isn't always better. There are all manner of theories out there from low dose to high doses, breaking up methods with pills for short periods to stimulate receptors, and adding progesterone , but what works for one doesn't often work for others.

There is advice that progesterone matures breasts, rounding them out and maturing ducts, but mature breasts likely won't continue to grow, so starting progesterone too early (before Tanner Stage 3 is attained) may actually hinder development.

Broadly, you need to find what works for you, and your doctor should be able to guide you. This usually means some experimenting with different methods and levels until something works, so trying multiple things at once may prevent you identifying the critical factor.

In the end, genetics seems to be the biggest influencer, after that, the skill of your doctor will be important.

Hugs,

Allie

that is actually really useful information about progesterone. Thanks for letting me know.

[jackiefox5585]

I have read a few accounts where people were successful in increasing breast size during transition by using a breast pump, but.. They were pumping for many hours each day, and not long after they stopped, their breasts shrank back to the size they likely would have been with HRT alone. A lot of effort and discomfort for no lasting benefit.

Hugs,

Allie

That may be it then. Even if it does work, the body is going to have a tendency to to revert things to a state that is natural to it.

[NancyDrew1930]

Hi Allie, totally agree as people try all sorts and mileage varies a lot. Genetics is no guarantee either though as plenty with larger breast sizes in the family don't achieve anywhere near the same. It's likely a case as to if your genetics supports growth at a later age maybe. I believe age can also influence results with younger generally getting better growth. But there lacks quality studies for sure.

I have avoided progesterone as I'm early on, except that my blocker is cyproterone acetate which itself has progestin effects. Unfortunately I don't have any medical support so I'm entirely controlling my HRT regime. So far I think I'm ok as 7 months I'm at B cup and progressing well.

Charlotte 😻

Charlotte I actually started with Cyproterone (and since I'm in Canada I had the choice) because Spiro, from what I have read, will cause the breast ducts and other tissues to close early, resulting in smaller breasts than those on Cyproterone.  (Also apparently Spiro binds quite easily to progesterone receptors, from what I saw but couldn't find a scientific source on it.) and I wanted the little bit of progesterone benefits that Cyproterone offered without all the extra running to the toilet.  And I am currently at a C cup, 3.5 years later.  I only started actual progesterone about a year and a half ago and my breasts are still growing (they are finally getting cleavage in my 54B bras—-they've had the volume for B cups for a while, but now in a B they are getting really pushed together which I don't think is good).

[Sarah B ✅]

Hi Everyone

Breast Pumps
As others have mentioned breast pumps do not make permanent increases in breast size.  A simple overview that keeps things clear:

• A breast pump only removes milk or draws fluid into the breast.
• Any fullness that appears right after pumping comes from temporary swelling or increased blood flow.
• Once the swelling settles the breast returns to its baseline size.
• Permanent breast growth requires long term hormonal changes, not mechanical suction.

Some people think pumps can stretch tissue, but normal pumping levels are not strong enough to cause structural growth.

My history
When I started taking hormones I was given Premarin 2 x 2mg twice a day.  Every fortnight I received an injection of Depo Provera. I had only a vague idea that breasts usually took three to five years to grow so I never fussed over them or watched them closely.  I simply took the tablets went for the injections and got on with my life.  After surgery the Depo Provera was stopped because I began to lactate which showed how responsive my breast tissue had become.  With time everything settled and my breast development stabilised at a size 18 C cup.

Estrogen
Taking estrogen is the hormone that builds real breast tissue.  Once taken consistently it forms the ducts then gradually shapes the breast mound in the same way as in any other woman. Early signs often include tenderness or tingling then small buds and that means the breasts hurt if you accidentally bump them.  Over the next few years the tissue thickens the breasts round out and they begin to behave like normal breasts with small daily variations linked to weight or fluid levels.  Final shape and size depend on genetics, age at which they start to build and how steady the hormone regimen remains.

Testosterone Suppression
Testosterone works against breast development so estrogen can only reach its full effect when testosterone levels are brought down.  This can be done with anti androgen medication or through surgery such as orchiectomy.  When testosterone stays high the breasts tend to remain small even with good estrogen doses.  Once levels drop estrogen works without opposition.  Many women notice fuller softer breasts after suppression becomes complete which matches the typical experience following surgery.

Progesterone
Progesterone influences the finer structures of the breast. It can support lobule development and can add fullness for some women.  Depo Provera is a strong long acting progestin so in my early years I had both estrogen and a powerful progestin shaping my breast tissue.  That combination helped explain why I had a fast response and the lactation that appeared after surgery when the glandular tissue became highly active.  Not everyone needs progesterone yet for those who respond well it forms part of their final breast pattern.

Time Course of Breast Development
Breast development takes time.  Tingling or soreness may begin within months then visible growth builds slowly over one to two years.  The common statement that "breasts take three to five years to reach their final form" is pretty much accurate in my case and matches what I was told or found out at the start.  During the period that the mound grows the areola changes and the internal tissue keeps rearranging itself.  Many of us finish with an A or B cup yet others reach a C or beyond when their genetics allow.  My 18 C cup fits the pattern of strong natural potential supported by consistent hormones and full testosterone suppression.

What Does Not Create Permanent Growth
Pumping devices only draw in fluid which creates short lived swelling.  They cannot form ducts or lobules so any fullness fades once the fluid drains.  Massage may feel pleasant but it does not turn skin or fat into glandular tissue.  Brief bursts of high estrogen cannot force fast development because the biology works on a slow timetable.  Only long term stable hormones create permanent breast growth, which is exactly what happened in me.

Best Wishes Always
Sarah B
Global Moderator
@jackiefox5585

[Allie Jayne]

Charlotte I actually started with Cyproterone (and since I'm in Canada I had the choice) because Spiro, from what I have read, will cause the breast ducts and other tissues to close early, resulting in smaller breasts than those on Cyproterone.  (Also apparently Spiro binds quite easily to progesterone receptors, from what I saw but couldn't find a scientific source on it.) and I wanted the little bit of progesterone benefits that Cyproterone offered without all the extra running to the toilet.  And I am currently at a C cup, 3.5 years later.  I only started actual progesterone about a year and a half ago and my breasts are still growing (they are finally getting cleavage in my 54B bras—-they've had the volume for B cups for a while, but now in a B they are getting really pushed together which I don't think is good).

Here is what Oxford Academic reports from a trial of Cyproterone v Spiro in Breast Development in Trans people.

https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/110/6/e1874/7759354 🔗

Hugs,

Allie

[Robbyv213]

Check out breastnexus

They have a bunch of different categories covering anything and everything that helps breast growth, including massage and even using breast pumps.

Take it all with a grain of salt,

[Tess100]

Hi, I'm currently using breast pumps (6 months of fairly consistent use). I started using them to see what the results would be like for me. I've been on a consistent E&P hormone combination for roughly 6 years so I have as much growth as possible naturally.
To answer your question, yes, pumping changes the internal breast tissue and the nipple. The changes however are not permanent. Read about the changes that breasts go through during pregnancy and breast feeding.
There is tons of information out there if you search under induced lactation.  There can be negative side effects from misusing the pumps, again tons of online information on how to damage your breasts and nipples during the breast pumping process.
It takes a while to figure out how to use the pumps. For myself, I have seen a tiny bit of change in volume of breast.  This is due to the milk making structures waking up and getting ready to produce milk.  The nipple has also changed a tiny bit for the same reason.  The nerve endings in both breasts have changed a lot.  My nipples are always super sensitive now.  Pumping releases a lot of hormones in the body, prolactin and oxytocin. The feeling of that hormone release has been the most amazing part.  Lactation is a possible end result of pumping which you should be ready for. I personally have not yet experienced that.

[Lori Dee ✅]

Check out breastnexus

They have a bunch of different categories covering anything and everything that helps breast growth, including massage and even using breast pumps.

Take it all with a grain of salt,

I have checked out this site in the past. So much bad information. NONE of what they describe works for permanent breast growth, and some of it can be dangerous.
As you said, "Take it with a grain of salt". It is sales and marketing. There is no easy, quick fix. There is no herbal or dietary routine that will get the job done.

ANY Over-the-counter (non-prescription) product lacks enough of, or the proper type, of hormones to be effective. If they contained the proper amount and type, they would be required by law to only sell it with a prescription.

At the bottom of the page is:
Breast Nexus is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Don't be fooled by marketing hype and anecdotes on websites that sell products and services. Don't play with your health using unregulated and possibly dangerous supplements.

[Tills]

Hi everyone, I am not sure if this is the right place for this topic. If this is inappropriate or violates any rules, please delete it.

I am curious if anyone has anecdotal information or personal experience using breast pumps to supplement breast growth during HRT.

I am aware that this is medically unfounded and there are no studies proving it works. However, I have heard from some people who swear by it, claiming that the lack of broad acceptance is because it requires years of consistency, not just weeks.

I am interested in whether this actually works for tissue expansion and blood flow, or if it is a myth. For those who have tried it:

Did you see any permanent results?

How did you manage the safety aspect? (I have heard you must avoid high suction to prevent skin damage/bruising).

I would love to hear your experiences or if you decided it wasn't worth the effort.

Hi Jackie,

Great questions and asked with a genuine enquiry and balanced approach. Replies are equally brilliant: an example of what a fantastic site this is.

I have a breast pump and have used it on and off for some years. My breasts are 42DD but I doubt that this has anything to do with the pump. It is, as others have said, to do with the hormones.

I believe that there's also a familial link with breast growth. My sisters both have very large breasts. Mine began ballooning the moment I started the estrogen but I also have a chromosome mutation on an estrogen receptor so that may explain it too.

In the early days I could produce breast milk. This is not in fact a good thing, or so I was told by my gender clinic. You need to be careful about prolactin levels and related issues with the pituitary gland: in fact they checked me once for a tumour. I didn't have one but you get the gist.

The other thing is to do with tissue damage, as has been written above and by you. I would caution anyone to be very careful about the use of breast pumps to increase size as tissue damage is a real thing. I have also been told by my gender clinic that there are some suggestions of a link from breast tissue damage to subsequent malignancy (cancer). I don't know the truth of that but I'm passing it on.

What I will add, however, is that I have found the breast pump to be highly stimulating. The nipple area is  very erogenous, or it is for me. Used gently and occasionally it can be a lot of fun. I've once, and only once, had the real thing from another woman which was out of this world. I'd probably best ... ahem ... stop there or this thread will deviate in a completely different direction 🤣

xx