It’s inevitable that pregnant women will experience several changes to their bodies. Most of these changes are to accommodate the growing baby, while some are due to hormonal fluctuations. Changes in hormone levels could lead to uncomfortable issues like breast tenderness and sensitivity.
Breast tenderness during pregnancy is a common issue that most expectant moms face, especially during the first trimester and it may well continue till the third. Let’s take an in-depth look at the underlying reasons behind the occurrence of breast sensitivity during pregnancy, as well as what pregnant women can do to manage it.
Breast pain is a sharp or dull pain that women feel in one or both of her breasts. Breast tenderness, on the other hand, refers to a feeling of soreness or heightened sensitivity. Such problems usually occur as a result of disruption of the menstrual cycle. This is why it is also one of the first signs of pregnancy in most women. Breast pain and tenderness can range from mild to severe. At times, the pain becomes so severe that it interferes with you performing your daily activities. While it's typically a normal part of pregnancy, persistent or severe pain should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Here are a few of the typical signs of breast pain and tenderness that you may notice during your pregnancy:
● During the first trimester, a dull ache or fullness can be felt in one or both breasts. Sometimes, there may be a tingling sensation felt in the nipples.
● As the pregnancy period progresses, you may experience soreness in one or both breasts.
● In the later stage of pregnancy, you may feel increased sensitivity around your breasts.
Given below are some of the usual reasons behind breast pain and tenderness that occurs during pregnancy.
Hormone level fluctuations are common during pregnancy, resulting in abnormal changes in your body. The progesterone and estrogen levels change during pregnancy, prepares your body for breastfeeding. This can lead to breast pain and soreness during pregnancy.
During pregnancy, you may experience several changes in your breasts. Usually, such changes include stretching of milk ducts and milk lobules, which results in pain. Also, the increase in the blood flow in your breasts also contributes to the pain.
The growing uterus puts extra pressure on your breasts, thus causing pain and discomfort.
Breast tenderness and pain are common during pregnancy. Here are a few tips that you can follow for pregnancy breast sensitivity relief:
By wearing good, comfortable maternity bras, you can minimise breast pain and tenderness to a considerable degree. It’s best to choose a bra that offers substantial support and minimal irritation. Opt for bras made from breathable fabrics like cotton.
Avoid wearing tight garments, as these can cause discomfort and irritation. Choose maternity clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
Applying cold packs to your breasts can ease pregnancy pain. It numbs the affected area and eases sensitivity. Place a towel on your chest and apply an ice pack to it. You can also use a bag of frozen peas.
Try taking a warm, relaxing shower if cold compresses don’t work for you. The hot water relaxes the muscles surrounding your breasts and improves circulation, thereby reducing inflammation.
If you find it difficult to manage the pain in your breasts during pregnancy, you can try taking pain relief medicines like Tylenol to ease breast sensitivity and pain. However, do so only after consulting your healthcare provider.
Drink a lot of fluids during pregnancy, as it can help avoid water retention in your body, thereby easing breast pain.
Follow a well-planned diet. Fatty and salty foods can contribute to water retention, which in turn may increase breast pain in pregnant women.
The symptoms of breast pain usually subside as you enter the third trimester. Some women may experience breast pain even after delivery. After delivery, you may experience engorgement of the breasts if the newborn does not latch on and breastfeed properly. You may also suffer from breast pain during breastfeeding. However, this, too, will subside on its own.
You may require immediate medical intervention if you experience severe breast pain that does not subside or if you are unable to perform your daily activities. You must go ahead and consult your doctor immediately if you notice a lump or discharge, as it can be a sign of a serious issue.
Though breast pain and tenderness can be quite bothersome, it must be remembered that such issues are typical during pregnancy. However, be sure to consult a healthcare provider if the pain and tenderness do not subside, as this could be a sign of underlying health issues that need immediate attention. Also, you can use the pregnancy breast care tips given in this article to better manage the situation.
Breast tenderness is a common issue that affects most pregnant women. It usually lasts throughout the pregnancy period. However, most expectant women find that this issue is more bothersome during the first trimester.
During pregnancy, follow the below-given tips to relieve breast tenderness:
● Always wear a well-fitted bra. This provides better support and comfort for your breasts, reducing pain and discomfort from friction.
● Apply a cold compress to your breast to ease breast tenderness.
● Try a light massage to relieve breast tenderness.
● Increasing your fluid intake helps combat fluid retention, which in turn alleviates breast tenderness.
Yes, limiting certain types of food, such as caffeine, alcohol, and high-fat foods, can help reduce breast tenderness. Staying hydrated can also ease breast tenderness as it helps reduce water retention.
