Why do breasts become swollen and painful? Hot compress massage to relieve pain

During pregnancy, many women will feel chest discomfort, and breast pain is the most troublesome thing for pregnant mothers. Breast pain is something that every pregnant mother must experience during pregnancy. However, experts remind pregnant mothers to pay special attention to breast pain caused by breast diseases.

How your breasts change during pregnancy

Breast changes during pregnancy include larger breasts, firmer and more sensitive nipples, a gradually enlarged areola and darker color, small papule-like protrusions surrounding the areola (i.e., areolar glands/Montgomery glands), breast itching, dilation and congestion of superficial veins in the skin, and breast lines similar to stretch marks may appear in the later stages.

Causes of breast tenderness

During pregnancy, breasts increase dramatically, generally by as much as 900 grams. In some pregnant women, breasts increase to three times their original size. The increase in volume pulls on Cooper's ligaments (i.e., suspensory ligaments of the breast), which is the main cause of breast pain. In addition, the sensitivity of the breasts increases during pregnancy, and inappropriate bra size can also cause pain.

Breast care during pregnancy

1. Massage your breasts regularly

Gently massaging the breasts can help return excess body fluid to the lymphatic system. When massaging, first apply soapy liquid to the breast, and rotate your fingers along the surface of the breast in a circle about the size of a coin. Then use your hands to press the breasts in and bounce them up, which is extremely helpful in preventing breast discomfort.

2. Try hot compress

Hot compress is a traditional Chinese medical treatment that can relieve breast pain by using a hot pack, hot water bottle, or hot bath. If you use alternating cold and hot compresses, the effect of eliminating breast discomfort will be better.

3. Choose the right maternity underwear

(1) Buy two slightly larger sizes of bras. Never buy a smaller size, otherwise it will restrict the normal development of breast tissue;

(2) Don’t buy one that is too big, otherwise it will not be able to support the heavy breasts and protect the glands from growing comfortably;

(3) Avoid wearing tight tops and choose pure cotton bras to reduce nipple friction during activities;

(4) In the late pregnancy, it is necessary to purchase a bra cup with a breastfeeding opening design, which not only increases the added value of the bra, but also extends the wearing period from pregnancy to breastfeeding;

(5) It is best to go to a specialty store, try it on and seek advice from professionals.

4. Key points for care during different pregnancy periods

(1) Early pregnancy: During the period of milk duct development, buy two slightly larger sizes of bras. Do not buy bras that are too small, otherwise it will restrict the normal development of breast tissue. Do not buy bras that are too large, otherwise it will not be able to support the heavy breasts and protect the glands for comfortable growth.

(2) Mid-pregnancy: The mammary glands secrete colostrum, which does not contain fat. A hot water bath will cause colostrum to leak out. During this period, you need to keep your breasts clean; use pregnancy skin care oil, and gently massage your breasts with your hands every day to promote the good development and growth of the mammary glands.

(3) Late pregnancy: As milk production increases and fat cells enlarge, the breasts become larger, which can easily lead to a relatively sunken nipple. If it is not corrected in time, pregnant women will not be able to breastfeed after delivery. They should press both sides of the areola with their fingers every day, and gently lift the nipple outward with the other hand, or push the nipple up and down and left and right to gently squeeze out the milk.