When do they perform?
Breast pain during pregnancy often occurs right at the beginning of the pregnancy. It is often the first sign of an existing pregnancy. Due to hormonal influences (rising levels of estrogens, progesterone and prolactin) there is a considerable growth of the mammary glands and later also milk production.
Until the breast tissue has adjusted to the pregnancy, unpleasant pain can therefore occur. As a rule, the pain subsides from the second trimester of pregnancy onwards. During the breastfeeding period, breast pain can occur again due to breastfeeding. The breast is not used to the strain of the sucking baby, the nipples may hurt and the breast may react sensitively. However, even these complaints usually resolve themselves over time.
Diagnosis of breast pain during pregnancy
No separate diagnostic measures are required to confirm the diagnosis of chest pain caused by pregnancy. The treating gynaecologist knows the phenomenon very well and can detect pregnancy-related tension and tissue increase by palpation of the breasts. If the symptoms are persistent or suspicious and provide indications of another cause of the pain, an ultrasound examination of the breast can be performed.
During this examination, the breast tissue is scanned with a transducer so that the doctor can see tissue changes on a screen. Depending on the findings, further measures can then be initiated if necessary. In exceptional cases, an MRI of the breast can be discussed. An MRI is a radiation-free examination method that can also be carried out during pregnancy under strict restrictions.
Therapy
As the breasts can be very sensitive for several months of pregnancy, it is important to wear a suitable bra. The cup size can change significantly during pregnancy, so well-fitting bras should be purchased in good time. Maternity shops also sell very supportive, soft bras, which can bring relief to aching breasts.
Thin bras, which are comfortable to wear at night, can also reduce strong sensitivities to touch. During physical activity it is particularly important to wear a sufficiently supporting bra. Due to the strong growth of the breasts, they become heavier and require more support, as otherwise vibrations such as during sport can lead to an increase in discomfort.
Every pregnant woman must test out other measures that can relieve breast pain for herself. Some women benefit from cooling their breasts with cool compresses, others prefer warmth, for example in the form of a warm bath. Often a light massage of the breasts can also be pleasant.
Pregnancy oils can be used, for example, which can improve the feeling of tension. The editors also recommend: Painkillers during pregnancyTo alleviate breast pain during pregnancy a little and reduce the feeling of tension, simple remedies and simple rules can provide good relief. It is recommended to wear light bras that are not constricting or constricting.
Most suitable are often sports bras without underwiring or special pregnancy bras, so that no or less pressure is exerted on the breast. Supporting bustiers, which can be worn in addition to the bras, are often helpful. Furthermore, cooling compresses (e.g. cottage cheese or lavender compresses) can alleviate the pain in the breast gland tissue, reduce swelling and have a soothing effect. Light massages with massage oils suitable for pregnancy can also be tried. Common homeopathic remedies for painful breasts during pregnancy include Folliculinum (homeopathic estrogen), Bryonia alba (white fence beet) and Hydrastis canadensis (Canadian turmeric), Arnica montana (mountain starfish), Asterias rubens (common starfish), Conium maculatum (spotted hemlock), Lac caninum (dog milk) or Phytolacca decandra (American cermes berry).
