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Breast Pain During Pregnancy: Possible Causes And Tips To Reduce It

Breast Pain During Pregnancy: Possible Causes And Tips To Reduce It

30 May 2023 | 6 min Read

Sudeshna Chakravarti

Author | 799 Articles

Breast pain during pregnancy is a normal phenomenon and is mainly caused due to hormonal fluctuations. In fact, breast pain and soreness is considered one of the earliest signs of pregnancy, and you may continue to experience it as your pregnancy progresses every week.

While breast pain is usually not a matter of concern, it can make you quite uncomfortable. But the good news is that you can implement some effective remedial measures to reduce your pain and discomfort.

Read on as we tell you more about the possible causes of breast pain during pregnancy, its common symptoms, and tips to ease breast pain and discomfort during pregnancy.

Is It Normal To Have Breast Pain During Pregnancy?

Breast pain is usually considered one of the early pregnancy signs / Image credit: Freepik

Breast pain, also called mastalgia, may occur as early as one to two weeks after conceiving. A study conducted by the American Pregnancy Association claimed that almost 17% of women reported breast pain as one of their early pregnancy symptoms.

However, as pregnancy symptoms may vary, not all women may experience breast pain right after conception. Some may have soreness or tenderness in their breasts at a later stage, especially during the second or third trimesters.

Which Parts Of Your Breast Hurt During Early Pregnancy?

During early pregnancy, you may experience pain and discomfort at a specific point or across one or both of your breasts. In some cases, you may also experience a dull pain or ache that moves outward into your armpits.

Symptoms Of Breast Pain During Pregnancy

Breast pain during pregnancy may appear in the form of the following symptoms.

Soreness on one or both breasts
Tingling sensation in your breasts
Tenderness in one or both breasts
Increased sensitivity in your breasts, especially during late pregnancy

While breast pain during pregnancy is usually dull, if you feel that it is causing you too much discomfort, and hindering your daily activities, then it’s recommended to seek medical advice.

Possible Causes Of Breast Pain During Pregnancy

The increase in the production of several hormones during pregnancy causes your mammary glands to become tender, further leading to pain. We have listed a few reasons why you may experience breast pain during pregnancy.

First trimester: Your breasts undergo several changes due to the release of progesterone, oestrogen, and prolactin hormones. These hormones cause your blood vessels to expand and lead to sensitivity and tenderness in your breasts.
Second and third trimesters: The released hormones help prepare your breasts for milk production. This in turn causes the milk ducts and lobules within your breasts to constantly stretch, leading to pain and discomfort.

How To Reduce Breast Pain During Pregnancy?

Wear a supportive bra and use warm compress to alleviate your breast pain during pregnancy / Image credit: Freepik

These tips will ease your discomfort and help manage sore breasts or breast pain during pregnancy.

Try a cotton sports bra: In case your breast size has increased significantly, wearing a cotton sports bra can help alleviate discomfort and also offer good support.
Use a disposable fabric pad: If you are experiencing colostrum leakage that is noticeable on your clothes, then you can consider using a disposable fabric pad under your bra to help absorb the leakage.
Use a warm compress: Soak a cloth in warm water and place it over your breasts to ease soreness. You can also consider placing an ice pack to soothe the discomfort.
Avoid direct physical contact with certain objects: Often direct contact with objects like purse, seatbelts, and showerheads can increase your pain and discomfort. Practice caution and adjust the use of such items.
Give your breasts a gentle massage: First apply a natural nipple butter to your breasts and then gently massage the areas where you are experiencing pain and discomfort. Applying nipple butter regularly can also help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and moisturise dry skin.

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When Should You Be Concerned About Breast Pain During Pregnancy?

If your breast pain is accompanied by the following symptoms, then you should see a doctor immediately.

Development of new lumps: Clogging of the milk ducts within your breasts may often appear as tender lumps on the outside. However, these lumps usually go away with massage and a warm compress. In case the lumps persist and newer lumps develop, see a doctor.
Painful lumps: If the lumps on your breast are painful, appear red, and are hard to touch, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Chronic discharge from your nipple: Colostrum, which is referred to as your baby’s first milk, may leak from your nipple as a thick and yellow fluid. This discharge usually occurs when your breasts are massaged and is considered normal. However, if the discharge is chronic, has a foul odour, and is accompanied by blood, then see your doctor.
Change in breast or nipple structure: Consult your doctor if you notice a dimpling of your nipple or a part of your breast. Also, if you notice any abnormal change in the shape of your breast or suspect a change in the colour of your breast tissue, then get it checked by your doctor.

Conclusion

Breast pain during pregnancy is common and in most cases is considered one of the early signs of conception. You may experience soreness, or sensitivity in intervals or consistently throughout pregnancy. However, don’t be alarmed as breast pain can be easily managed with the tips we discussed above.

If you experience abnormal pain or notice any changes in your breasts, then get it checked by your healthcare provider immediately.