What causes nipple pain during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a very special period. Any slight changes in a woman's body at this time will be taken seriously, especially pain in the body. The nipples are a very sensitive part of a woman's body. In addition to being very uncomfortable, nipple pain during pregnancy also causes concerns about the risk of other diseases. So, what causes nipple pain during pregnancy? Let’s take a look below.

Why does breast pain occur during pregnancy?

After a woman becomes pregnant, the development of the mammary ducts and alveoli accelerates due to the stimulation of large amounts of estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, etc. secreted by the placenta and chorion, in order to prepare for future lactation and feeding of the baby.

Under the combined stimulation of estrogen and progesterone, pregnant women may experience tingling, swelling and itching in their breasts one or two weeks after conception. This is a normal physiological phenomenon in early pregnancy. From the 8th week onwards, the breasts gradually grow larger, the color of the nipples and areola deepens, and dark brown nodules appear around the nipples. After 12 weeks, sticky yellowish colostrum will be produced if the nipples are occasionally squeezed. And as the mammary glands enlarge, lumps-like growths may develop in the breasts.

What to do if you have breast pain during pregnancy

Due to breast swelling, pregnant women should promptly change to a wider bra to support the growing breasts. For some people who experience obvious pain, hot compresses, massage and other methods can be used to relieve breast discomfort. Pregnant women are advised to gently massage their breasts with their hands every day to promote breast development, and to clean their nipples regularly to keep them clean. No treatment is required.

Women should never panic if they experience breast pain during pregnancy, as it is just something you have to go through on the road to becoming a mother. During this period, you can relieve the pain according to the above methods. This pain usually lasts for two or three months. Depending on personal physical condition, some people may even feel pain throughout the pregnancy.