Help for Sore Breasts

Posted on Oct 1, 2013 | Being Pregnant Category | | Print This Article

Sore breasts are among the first signs of pregnancy for many women. They are caused by the rapid increase of hormones during the first trimester. This is perfectly normal and necessary for your body to prepare for the arrival of your baby and breastfeeding.

Beginning around week four and extending through the beginning of the second trimester, it is common for your breasts to be:

• Tender
• Swollen
• Tingly
• Touch-sensitive

These symptoms are similar to what many women experience during their period, but tend to be considerably stronger. While these symptoms generally subside during the second trimester, they sometimes continue throughout pregnancy.

Fortunately, there are simple, natural ways to treat breast tenderness. Here are some of the most commonly recommended:

• Get new bras. Get fitted for your bras to make sure they fit properly and offer you the support your growing breasts need. Choose bras made of breathable material such as cotton rather than those made with synthetics. Expect to change cup sizes occasionally during your pregnancy.
• Use a heating pad. Rest on your back and place the heating pad over your breasts for relief.
• Use an ice pad. Use just as you would a heating pad. Try both to see which provides better relief for you.
• Drink more fluids. Drink plenty of water and other clear fluids. Drinking extra water can help reduce swelling by flushing your body of unneeded fluid.
• Avoid salty foods. Salt makes you retain fluids. Of course, some salty foods, like saltines, also help reduce morning sickness. Giving them up entirely may not be an option, depending on which early pregnancy symptoms are giving you more problems at the time.
• Use essential oils. Juniper, cypress and rosemary oils can all be used to treat breast tenderness. You can either mix them with sweet almond oil and massage a few drops onto your breasts or add them to a nice, hot bath.

Try natural remedies for breast soreness first. If they aren’t doing the job for you, you may also be able to relive the pain with over the counter medications like Tylenol. Check with your doctor regarding which types of medicine are safe for you to use during your pregnancy.

Around The Web:

• 10 Ways You Can Expect Your Body To Change Once You’re Pregnant (dayton.mom-spot.com)

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