Breast Pain During Pregnancy: Causes & Remedies

As your body changes during pregnancy, you may experience sore, tender breasts. As the best multispeciality hospital in Boisar, Palghar, we understand that breast pain during pregnancy is common due to hormonal changes that cause breast tissue growth and preparation for breastfeeding. 

What causes breast pain during pregnancy?

The main cause of breast pain during pregnancy is hormonal changes. Progesterone and estrogen levels drastically increase during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. These hormones:

• Stimulate breast growth and enlargement as they prepare for lactation
• Increase blood flow to the breast tissue 
• Cause the milk ducts and lobules to expand

All of this activity can lead to breast tenderness, swelling, and even pain. The pain tends to fluctuate throughout pregnancy and can range from mild to severe. Consult OB/Gynaecologist in Boisar, Palghar.

Symptoms of breast pain during pregnancy

Symptoms of breast pain during pregnancy include:

• Tenderness, fullness, and swelling of the breasts  
• Sharp, stabbing pains or a dull, squeezing sensation
• Breasts feeling heavy or tight
• Pain in one or both breasts
• Pain that increases while lying down
• Pain that gets worse towards the end of pregnancy 

While any breast pain during pregnancy warrants mention to your doctor, sudden, severe breast pain and tenderness accompanied by redness, warmth, or hard lumps should always be evaluated.

Remedies and treatments for breast pain in Pregnancy.

While there are no medications proven safe and effective for breast pain in pregnancy, these remedies and lifestyle strategies can help relieve symptoms:

• Wear a well-fitting maternity/nursing bra with good support, especially at night  
• Apply heat or cold packs to the breasts 
• Take warm showers or baths   
• Gently massage your breasts    
• Avoid tight clothing that restricts your breasts
• Drink plenty of water to stay well hydrated
• Avoid caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol
• Try over-the-counter pain relievers, if approved by your doctor
• Talk to your doctor about physical therapy or chiropractic treatments if the pain is severe   

For severe or worsening pain, talk to your healthcare provider about additional treatment options. Untreated, long-term breast pain can make pregnancy and breastfeeding more difficult.

When to see a doctor for breast pain in pregnancy

Contact your OB-GYN right away if:

• Breast pain starts suddenly and is severe
• You notice redness, swelling, lumps or nipple discharge 
• Breast pain is accompanied by fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms
• Home remedies do not relieve breast pain within a few days
• Breast pain interferes with daily activities

Your doctor will do a physical exam and may order imaging tests to rule out infections, cysts, or other abnormalities.

In summary, breast pain during pregnancy is common and usually does not signal a serious condition. But consulting your doctor will help determine the cause and possible treatments to make you more comfortable. Adhikari Lifeline Hospital, the best hospital in Boisar, Palghar offers advanced maternity care and treatment for expectant mothers. We have a team of expert OB-GYNs and modern facilities to ensure safe delivery and postpartum recovery. We have a modern labour and delivery unit with labour rooms equipped with fetal monitors, pain management during labour and a neonatal intensive care unit for preterm and newborn babies. Experience the best of maternity care with us in Boisar!