What causes breast pain after pregnancy?

Written by Wang Xiu Mei
Obstetrics
Updated on January 19, 2025
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In early pregnancy, hormonal changes occur in women's bodies, with increased levels of estrogen and progesterone leading to breast tenderness. This usually eases over time and is a normal physiological condition. Regular prenatal check-ups should be within normal ranges. If the discomfort is severe, it could indicate an abnormal condition, and it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. It is recommended to rest well, relax, maintain a cheerful mood, and ensure adequate sleep. Dietarily, avoid raw, cold, spicy, and stimulating food. Refrain from smoking, excessive drinking, and other unhealthy habits. Opt for a light yet nutritionally balanced diet, consume fresh fruits and vegetables, and eat smaller, more frequent meals. During the first three months of pregnancy, it is still necessary to supplement with folic acid to prevent neural tube defects in the fetus.

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Written by Fan Hong Qiao
Breast Health Department
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What causes breast pain during menstruation?

The menstrual period is a time when female hormone levels fluctuate, which is the fundamental reason why most women experience breast pain during menstruation. Due to the fluctuation of hormone levels, there is an increase in breast tissue and edema in the interstitial tissue of the breast, ultimately causing the sensation of breast pain. If the breast pain during menstruation does not ease after the period, or if the pain is very severe, or even painful to touch, attention is needed. This is considered pathological breast pain, likely caused by breast disease, and could be related to breast hyperplasia, mastitis, or even breast tumors. It is necessary to consult a professional doctor for a breast diagnosis.

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Written by Zhang Chun Yun
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can breast swelling and pain before menstruation be relieved by massage?

It is advisable to go to the hospital for a systematic, standardized, and reasonable examination before menstruation if you experience breast swelling and pain, in order to rule out diseases that could cause such symptoms, such as mastitis in women, mammary hyperplasia, or breast cancer, etc. If these organic changes in the female breast are ruled out and the pain is considered to be caused by premenstrual syndrome, you may gently massage under the doctor's advice and guidance to alleviate the pain. Be gentle and slow in your approach, and pay attention to the technique; do not pinch or squeeze with excessive movements. Please follow the doctor's advice for specific actions. If you have further questions, please consult a doctor at the hospital.

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Written by Wu Shi Ting
Breast Health Department
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What causes breast pain?

We note that breast pain is commonly seen in fibrocystic breast condition. We suggest that you develop good habits in your work and daily life, avoid spicy and irritating food, as well as habits of smoking and drinking, avoid staying up late and overworking, maintain a positive mood and optimistic attitude, and seek timely examination and treatment in a specialized department of a formal hospital. If the breast pain is not caused by fibrocystic changes but other serious lesions, it is even more crucial to promptly and early receive appropriate medical treatment from a doctor.

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Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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What tests should be done for breast pain?

Breast pain is generally considered to be caused by breast hyperplasia. It usually occurs or worsens before menstruation and decreases or disappears after menstruation. In this case, it is recommended to have a breast ultrasound, which generally shows uneven low echo areas. If cysts are formed, anechoic areas will be reported. You can also undergo a mammography X-ray examination, which often shows ground glass-like or cotton wool-like shadows. If financial conditions allow, further breast MRI examination can be conducted to more accurately determine the benign or malignant nature of the condition.

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Written by Fan Hong Qiao
Breast Health Department
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How to regulate premenstrual breast swelling and pain

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.