Any pain or discomfort in the boobies at any point makes us jump to the worst conclusions. While checking for lumps and getting regular mammograms done are the safest ways to deal with it, sometimes this pain is nothing but a side-effect of periods. It’s called Cyclical Myalgia and you may experience it during or before shark week. We’re here to break it down for you and tell you all about breast pain before or during periods and how to deal with it. Read on:
Breast Pain During Periods: Is It Normal?
According to a study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecology, more than 50% of women suffer from breast pain during or before their period. So if your delicate darlings also hurt during this phase of your menstrual cycle, you’re not alone. It is a fairly common symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and it’s nothing to worry about in most cases. It should ideally subside during or after your period. However, if the pain lingers on or is accompanied with lumps or a nipple discharge, you must schedule a visit to the doc as it can be a sign of a serious underlying health condition like fibroids or breast cancer.
Breast Pain During Periods: Why Does It Happen?
Breast pain during periods or before can be blamed on your fluctuating hormones. The estrogen levels usually peak in the middle of the cycle while progesterone rises during the week before your period. While the former can cause the breast ducts to enlarge, the latter can swell up the milk glands. This can lead to pain, tenderness, swelling in the breasts.
Symptoms of Breast Pain During Periods
Decoding the reason behind your breast soreness and pain can be quite confusing. But these symptoms of Cyclical Myalgia will make it easier for you to identify whether or not your breast pain stems from hormonal fluctuations:
-Dull aching in the breasts.
-Tenderness and heaviness in both breasts.
-The pain starts a week before your period and subsides almost immediately when menstrual bleeding begins.
-Breasts may feel dense, coarse or swollen.
-Nipple sensitivity increases.
How To Manage Breast Pain During Periods
Here are five effective measures you can try to take the edge off a painful shark week:
Warm Compress
Applying a warm compress on your breasts can reduce inflammation and swelling. It can also help your breast muscles relax and give you some much-needed relief from pain in the area. Remember not to go overboard with this and make sure that the hot water bottle or heating pad is at a reasonable temperature that doesn’t end up giving you a burn.
Reduce Salt Intake
High salt diet means excess sodium. This can cause the body to retain too much water. If the body holds on to extra fluid, the breast tissue will too. This will increase the discomfort and make breast pain during periods even worse. So, reduce your salt intake at least a week or ten days before and during your period.
Avoid Alcohol & Caffeine
Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages are terrible for your overall health. But did you know that they can worsen breast pain during periods too? Yes, caffeine and alcohol cause blood vessels to dilate, which can cause breasts to swell and feel painful. Hence, it is best to ditch these beverages for herbed teas and water before and during shark week.
Exercise
Mild stretches and medium-paced walks for 30-45 minutes a day can boost your overall health. But they particularly help reduce breast pain during periods by boosting your blood circulation and decreasing inflammation in any area of the body.
Opt For A Comfy Bra
A comfortable bra can keep the blood circulation in your breasts going and help you feel at ease. So ditch those lacy, padded or wired bras for a supportive one, preferably in a breathable fabric like cotton.
We’re sure that these strategies will provide some much-needed comfort and relief from breast pain during periods. All the breast..err best!
Featured Image: Pexels
Also Read
Reasons for Delayed Period: Wondering why your period is late? Read this to find the answer.
Home Remedies for Period Pain: These effective home remedies will help you power through a painful period like a champ.:
Home Remedies for Period Back Pain: Struggling with period back pain? Here’s what to do.
How to Use Sanitary Pads: A beginner’s guide to using sanitary pads like a pro.
