How to regulate premenstrual breast swelling and pain

Written by Fan Hong Qiao

Breast Health Department

Updated on September 18, 2024

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Before menstruation, estrogen levels rise and the breast tissue becomes congested and swollen, leading to breast pain. At this time, it is recommended for women to maintain a light diet, keep in a pleasant mood, avoid irritability, have regular routines, avoid excessive fatigue, and engage in moderate exercise, among other practices. After menstruation begins, hormone levels decrease, and this type of pain naturally eases without needing much attention. However, if the pain is severe and affects normal life, or if the pain lasts beyond the menstrual period, it is advised to visit a breast surgery specialist 3 to 5 days after the end of the period for an examination.

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Written by Wu Shi Ting

Breast Health Department

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Can pregnancy cause breast pain?

Pregnant women are very likely to experience breast pain, which is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. Symptoms like breast tenderness, sensitivity, and a stinging sensation usually appear within 3-4 weeks of pregnancy, sometimes even before a pregnancy test can be taken. This is primarily because, to better support the growth of the fetus, the body produces more estrogen, stimulating the growth of mammary glands and causing breast pain. Of course, as the pregnancy progresses and hormone levels gradually stabilize, breast pain will be alleviated. Pregnant women should not be overly concerned. However, it is also important to remind pregnant women that while this breast pain might increase discomfort during pregnancy, it is usually bearable. If the breast pain becomes unbearable, it is still essential to visit a hospital for a check-up.

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Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

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Can I apply magnesium sulfate for breast pain?

Breast distension pain generally does not require the administration of magnesium sulfate, as magnesium sulfate is typically used for cellulitis or inflammation and swelling and needs to be applied externally. Breast distension pain is usually related to breast hyperplasia, which is associated with elevated levels of estrogen in the body. Therefore, it is often treated with traditional Chinese medicine. Techniques such as soothing the liver and regulating the Qi, as well as coordinating the thoroughfare and conception vessels, can relieve pain. Endocrine treatments are also available, though ideally not used unless the pain is very significant during the premenopausal period, in which case it can be taken before the onset of menstruation. Vitamin therapy, including vitamins B, C, and E, can also be used; these improve liver function, regulate basal metabolism, and enhance the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, serving as adjunctive treatments for this condition.

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Written by Zhang Chun Yun

Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Is breast pain before menstruation the ovulation period?

Generally, breast pain before menstruation in women is more likely caused by premenstrual syndrome rather than ovulation, as ovulation occurs approximately 14 days before the onset of menstruation, which is still some time before the period starts, so typically, women do not experience breast pain due to ovulation. It is advised that women experiencing breast pain before menstruation should visit a hospital for a systematic examination under the guidance of a doctor to rule out any organic changes in the breast tissues. If it is confirmed to be caused by premenstrual syndrome, it is important to provide psychological comfort and suggestions under the advice of a doctor, helping women smoothly get through the premenstrual period. If you have further questions, please consult a doctor at the hospital.

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Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

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Is it useful to apply potato slices for breast pain?

Applying potato slices to breast swelling and pain is ineffective, as such discomfort often relates to mammary gland hyperplasia, which is commonly believed to be associated with hormonal imbalances leading to increased estrogen levels. Therefore, for the swelling and pain caused by hyperplasia, we generally use traditional Chinese medicine treatments. By employing methods that soothe the liver and regulate Qi, aligning the Chong and Ren meridians, pain relief can be achieved. Endocrine treatments are also available but generally avoided unless the pain is particularly severe before menopause, in which case they can be taken before the onset of menstruation. Vitamin therapy is another option. Vitamins B, C, and E are known to improve liver function, regulate basal metabolic rate, and enhance autonomic nervous functions, serving as supplementary treatments for the condition. In recent years, vitamin E has also been recognized for its pain-relief properties. Proper diagnosis of breast swelling and pain also necessitates the use of color ultrasonography and mammography.

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Written by Jia Rui

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Why are breasts painful and swollen before menstruation?

Premenstrual breast pain is a common symptom among women and is considered a normal physiological response. It mainly occurs due to the increase in estrogen levels in the body seven to ten days before menstruation, leading to breast hyperplasia and enlargement, causing discomfort that makes the breasts sensitive to touch. There is no need for excessive concern as breast pain caused by hyperplasia is normal. Generally, the condition improves after menstruation and does not require special treatment. If the pain is severe, applying heat can help alleviate it.