How to Get Relief from Pregnancy Breast Pain?

Breast pain is a common pregnancy symptom. In fact, sore nipples and tender breasts are considered as one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. Many women start getting breast pain even before they realise that they have missed their periods. Here, you will learn about the causes and how to get relief from breast pain during and after pregnancy, as well as how long it can last. You will also learn about what causes breast pain after delivery.

What Causes Breast Pain During Pregnancy?

Breast pain is a common early symptom of pregnancy caused by hormonal changes. Hormones prepare the breasts for breastfeeding, leading to increased blood flow and growth of milk ducts and milk-producing glands. This growth can cause pain, skin irritation, and itching, typically occurring during the first trimester.

How to Relieve Breast Tenderness During Pregnancy?

Here are some tips to help ease pregnancy breast pain.

• Supportive Bra

Wearing a fitted bra will support your breasts, reducing pain and discomfort. A full-coverage bra is recommended for better support, and wearing a comfortable sleep bra at night may also help.

• Sports Bra

Switching to a sports bra helps. Consider wireless, seamless options in soft fabrics if your breasts are easily irritated.

• Don't Touch

 Refrain from touching as it makes matters worse. Allow the soreness to subside.

• Wear loose-fitting clothes

During pregnancy, wear flowy clothes to avoid constriction and irritation caused by tight tops and inside seams.

• Try a cold compress

Cold therapy can relieve early pregnancy breast pain. Apply an ice pack properly wrapped in a towel to the affected area for numbness and reduced sensitivity. A frozen bag of peas is a good alternative.

• Take warm showers

A steamy shower might work well if a cold compress fails to offer relief. The heat from a hot shower may relieve tension and help relax adjoining muscles.

• Ask about medication

If natural remedies are not providing relief, your healthcare provider may prescribe an over-the-counter pain reliever that is pregnancy-safe. Your doctor may prescribe medicines like Acetaminophen.

What Causes Breast Pain After Pregnancy?

Breast pain post-delivery is known as postpartum breast engorgement. It is common and uncomfortable. It happens during the early postpartum phase or if there's a sudden change in nursing frequency. Breastfeeding can also cause pain and problems like mastitis, nipple thrush, or nipples that are sore and cracked.

Does breast pain last long after delivery?

Breast pain and sensitivity typically ease up as pregnancy progresses. Post-delivery, you may experience breast pain again. This may happen when milk "comes in," leading to engorgement. However, engorgement usually subsides when you nurse your baby or pump milk. It may also go away when your body decides how much milk to produce and milk production balances out. If you experience pain during nursing or pumping milk, it will also recede with time.