Breast pain during pregnancy

Breast pain – a symptom of pregnancy?

During the 9 months of pregnancy, a woman’s breasts significantly change their appearance. Their enlargement can occur as early as the 6th. week of pregnancy. This is due to the influence of hormones, primarily an increase in progesterone and estrogen. They lead to swelling of the follicle glands and ducts in the pregnant woman’s nipples. This process can cause not only breast pain during pregnancy, but also tingling or general discomfort in the area. However, these are not the only changes occurring in a woman’s mammary glands. Lumps on the nipples known as Montgomery’s nodules also enlarge. They are responsible for proper lubrication of the nipple and thus make it easier for the baby to locate the nipple during feeding. During pregnancy, the very tension of the breast also increases, and one will notice a widening of the venous vessels under the skin.

Breast pain in II. mid-pregnancy                                                                                   

The second half of pregnancy is a further increase in the volume of the breast and the tissues and glands that comprise it. Although these processes occur with less intensity than they do at the beginning of its course, they can still cause a woman to feel uncomfortable. The second trimester is primarily associated with the possible initial leakage of the so-called “nipples”. nostrums. This can happen even as early as between 16. a 20. Week of pregnancy, especially under strong pressure on the nipple. Although the discharge itself is not associated with pain, it causes significant discomfort for most women. For this reason, the use of breast pads is recommended if it occurs. However, particular inconveniences arise at the end of pregnancy, when pregnant women struggle with swollen and sore breasts. This is due to, among other things. the highest concentration of prolactin, a hormone that directly regulates lactation and thus the proliferation of the mammary glands. During this period, it is particularly important to choose the right bra size, which sometimes causes difficulties for moms-to-be.

Breast care during pregnancy

Breasts increase significantly in size during pregnancy. If their growth progresses too quickly, the appearance of stretch marks can occur. To avoid them, special attention should be paid to moisturizing the skin of the breasts, for example, using a firming serum. What’s more, it also allows a pregnant woman to combat another unpleasant symptom associated with stretch marks, which is the occurrence of itching. It is also advisable to gently massage the breasts, as this increases blood circulation and skin elasticity. In order to reduce spinal pain associated with the heavy strain on the spine due to the increased size of the breasts, it is important to properly select a bra and, if necessary, not to remove it for sleep as well.

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Stretch marks after pregnancy- can they be prevented?