Tender and painful breasts before menstruation affect up to 70% of women and are one of the main symptoms of premenstrual syndrome . ( 1 ) Like other menstrual symptoms, they can be triggered by reproductive hormones, which fluctuate throughout the cycle and prepare a woman’s body for a possible pregnancy. However, breast changes can also be a sign of early pregnancy, or they may have no connection to the menstrual cycle or reproductive hormones.
Breast pain before menstruation
Breast tenderness and pain that occurs at certain times during the menstrual cycle and is related to changing hormone levels is called cyclical mastodynia . You can usually recognize it by the following signs:
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pain and tenderness typically begin to appear after ovulation
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the pain comes at about the same time each cycle
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It is usually a dull ache that may be accompanied by swelling.
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The pain or tenderness affects both breasts, but may be slightly more pronounced in one breast.
Estrogen levels peak midway through your menstrual cycle and can cause your milk ducts to enlarge. This can make your breasts and nipples more sensitive in the days leading up to ovulation . In the second half of your cycle, about a week before your period , progesterone levels rise, causing your breasts to swell. Your breasts can feel tender, swollen, and heavy. Hormonal changes also promote water retention in your breasts and abdomen, which can make you feel heavy and full. ( 2 )
Menstrual symptoms come, but menstruation is nowhere to be found? Read about the possible reasons .
Breast pain during pregnancy
Breast changes aren’t always just a menstrual symptom. However, breast tenderness or pain is a fairly common early sign of pregnancy . ( 3 ) Reproductive hormones prepare your body throughout your cycle for the successful implantation of a fertilized egg. If conception occurs during ovulation and implantation occurs, estrogen promotes the growth of breast ducts, and progesterone promotes the growth and production of breast milk-supporting tissue. In the early weeks of pregnancy, your breasts may feel fuller, more sensitive, swollen, or painful to the touch until your progesterone levels stabilize.
Noncyclical breast pain
Breast pain as a symptom of premenstrual syndrome can occur in the second half of the menstrual cycle, especially just before menstruation. With menstrual bleeding, relief and improvement from these symptoms usually comes.
If breast pain is unrelated to your menstrual cycle and does not improve after your period, the symptoms only affect one side, or the breast pain is accompanied by a lump, nipple discharge, or signs of a breast infection, see your doctor as soon as possible to identify the cause and prevent possible health problems.
How to relieve pain
To make the premenstrual period more bearable for your breasts, a well-fitting bra with sufficient support is of course the key. Regular exercise during the cycle and adjusting your diet can also be a good way to alleviate PMS symptoms .
And if you want to give your body a little extra care, you can reach for our Cramp Days oil . The oil combines six local herbs that are known for their soothing and analgesic properties. Thanks to its composition, it has a pleasant warming effect , relaxes muscles and relieves tension in the body. You can use it on the chest, back or lower abdomen during physical discomfort during your cycle.
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You can find Cramp Days oil in a convenient package together with the Premenstrual Complex , the practical guide Ten Commandments for a Healthy Cycle, and menstrual supplies of your choice.
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The Femvie team
