Pulling in the breast during ovulation
A pulling in the breast that occurs before, during or after ovulation is one of the most common cycle-related complaints. Especially young and/or very slim women are regularly affected by such complaints. The reason for the occurrence of breast tenderness before, during or after ovulation is the natural hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle.
Above all, the increase or decrease in the sex hormone estrogen plays a decisive role in the development of breast tenderness. In addition, it is assumed that the imbalance between estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle also plays a major role in the development of cycle-related complaints. Women who suffer from severe breast tenderness before, during or after ovulation should note that this symptom is usually not a cause for concern.
The hormonal fluctuations that are essential for maintaining the menstrual cycle cause temporary fluid retention in the area of the breasts in many women. This fluid retention alone can cause affected women to feel a strong pulling sensation in the breasts before, during or after their period. In addition, the anterior pituitary gland is stimulated during the menstrual cycle.
As a result, the hormone prolactin is released in increased quantities. Prolactin in turn induces an increase in the number of milk-producing cells in the area of the mammary gland tissue. This can also cause a pulling in the breast.
Cycle-dependent complaints always follow a certain pattern. This means that certain symptoms occur mainly during ovulation, while other symptoms occur mainly before the start of the period. If the pulling in the breast occurs particularly frequently and does not follow a recognizable pattern, it is worthwhile visiting a specialist in gynecology.
He or she can determine the cause of the breast symptoms and, if necessary, initiate appropriate therapy. There can be a variety of causes for the occurrence of strong pulling in the breast, which occurs mainly during and/or after breastfeeding. For this reason, especially the concomitant symptoms that occur at the same time can help to determine the causative disease.
In women who suffer from a strong pulling in the breast during and/or after breastfeeding, a so-called “milk congestion” can often be detected. In the case of a milk congestion, there are completely emptied milk ducts within the breast tissue, which do not allow the breast milk to pass through. The reason for the occurrence of this problem is often too tight bras, which squeeze the breast gland tissue and thus irritate it.
In addition, problems in positioning the baby can lead to a milk congestion. Affected women notice nodular areas on the breasts in addition to the pulling in the breast, which occurs mainly during or after breastfeeding. In addition, the skin surface in the area of the affected breast can be significantly warmed.
In particularly pronounced cases, a fever can also occur. For this reason, women who suspect a milk congestion should urgently consult a gynecologist as soon as possible.In many cases, the midwife can also help to assess the situation and take further steps if necessary. Inflammatory processes in the area of the mammary gland tissue are another cause of the occurrence of a strong pulling in the breast, which is particularly noticeable during and after breastfeeding.
In addition to the pulling in the breast, affected women often notice significant hardening, which does not subside even after breastfeeding. In addition, inflammation of the breast can lead to general symptoms such as fever, aching limbs and fatigue. Affected women can initially alleviate the pulling in the breast by applying cold curd compresses. However, if the symptoms do not subside within a short time or even worsen, a specialist in gynaecology must be consulted immediately and appropriate treatment initiated.
