Breast pain is very common at the beginning and end of pregnancy. Find out why this happens and how to relieve breast pain during pregnancy.
Why breasts get sore during pregnancy
Your body is changing fast, hormones are out of control and there are many symptoms that you may experience. Sore breasts can be one of the first signs of pregnancy. Even before morning sickness.
The pain and tenderness felt really depends on the person. For some it’s barely more than the ache that accompanies your period. While for others it can be a lot worse. Some women can’t bear anything touching their breasts.
Why do we get sore breasts during pregnancy?
- Hormones – When you become pregnant you will experience a surge of hormones. Estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin will stimulate your breasts and cause your milk glands to grow. This will cause your breasts to become tender and possibly painful.
- Growth – The hormones, enlarged milk glands, and possible water retention will cause your breasts to become larger. This will leave your breasts feeling heavy and uncomfortable.
- Changes in the breast – During pregnancy you will get fibrocystic changes in your breasts. These changes happen when very small cysts form in the tissue of your breasts. They can fill with fluid and can be very painful.
You will probably find that your breasts will hurt the most at the beginning and end of your pregnancy. However there are things you can do to help. Here are some tips for how to relieve breast pain during pregnancy.
How To Relieve Breast Pain During Pregnancy
Wear A Supportive Bra
In the very early days of pregnancy you may find that a sports bra is more comfortable but you may find that you need more support as your pregnancy progresses.
To help ease those tender aching breasts you will want to invest in a good maternity bra. Ensure that the bra gives you plenty of support but avoid underwired bras as they can cause extra discomfort.
You may find it helpful to sleep in your bra. This prevents them from moving around too much and causing you pain. Just make sure the bra you are wearing is comfortable.
Try A Hot Or Cold Compress
You may find that a hot or cold compress will ease the ache if you place them over your breasts.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wearing tight clothing will squeeze and compress your breasts which will make the pain worse.
So opt to wear loose fitting clothing to avoid the material pressing on your breasts and the seams causing irritation.
Avoid Touching
You will probably do this without thinking but it’s best to avoid anything having contact with your breasts to help avoid pain.
Try to avoid seat belts and bag straps from lying across your painful breasts. Try to aim for them lying between your breasts to avoid discomfort.
Reduce Your Salt Intake
Salt causes you to retain water. The higher your salt intake, the more water you retain.
Retaining a lot of water will cause your breasts to be fuller, heavier, and more painful.
Take A Warm Bath
It might be best to avoid a shower as the water hitting your tender breasts could be painful.
Instead, try soaking in a bath as the warm water will help to soothe your aching breasts. A good long soak will also help to relax you. Adding Epsom salt to the water could help too
Breast Pads
Although breast pads are typically used by breastfeeding moms you may find them useful to shield your sore nipples.Place them inside your bra to prevent the material rubbing and irritating your breasts.
As a bonus they will help to absorb any leaks of breast milk towards the end of your pregnancy.
As a side note if you are thinking about breastfeeding then you will probably have a lot of questions, that is why I created the Due Date Club, which gives you access to a private community of pregnant moms, with the same due date as yourself. Ask questions to people who are going through the same as you or learn from some of our expert speakers on various topics, the list goes on. Here is more info on the club.
Stay Hydrated
Water retention can make your sore breasts worse. Drinking plenty of water will help flush fluids out of your system. Keep a bottle of water with you at all times, you could always add some fresh fruit for extra flavour.
Soothe With A Nipple Cream
Your nipples can get extremely sensitive during pregnancy. A good nipple cream will work wonders to soothe your painful nipples and sore breasts.
Let me know in the comments below what works for you
Information ref: https://www.newmomlife.net/pregnancy-breast-pain/
