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Breast pain during pregnancy, swelling of the mammary glands
The mammary glands during pregnancy are actively preparing for the period of breastfeeding of the child. A number of physiological changes take place in them, which sometimes cause discomfort. To reduce discomfort and prepare the breast for lactation, you need to properly care for it during pregnancy.
What changes occur in the mammary glands during pregnancy?
From the very beginning of the period of bearing a child in the female body, the concentration of the hormones estrogen and progesterone increases. It is they who cause changes in the chest. It increases in size, swells and hurts. This can happen from the very first weeks of pregnancy.
The mammary glands change significantly during pregnancy
But some women notice breast growth only in the third trimester and there is nothing abnormal in this. There are no strict deadlines required for every expectant mother. The intensity with which the mammary glands hurt during pregnancy is different for everyone. Some women note a constant pulling pain, while for others, only touching the chest causes discomfort.
What else happens to the mammary glands during this period:
- The halos around the nipples darken.
- The vascular network becomes more pronounced.
- Colostrum is excreted in the last weeks.
Colostrum does not need to be squeezed out to determine if it is present. A woman may notice small crusts on her nipples. These are the droplets of colostrum, dried up between the ducts. They are a breeding ground for germs, so you need to wash your breasts thoroughly, even if unpleasant.
Swelling of the mammary glands during pregnancy is unpleasant in itself, but if nothing is done, it can lead to stretch marks on the chest and its sagging. Therefore, literal support at this time is very important to her. It is necessary to change the bra to a more comfortable one with wide straps. There should be no bones, they interfere with normal blood circulation. The most comfortable models are made especially for pregnant women. They hold the chest well without squeezing it.
If by the end of the term, the breast began to leak colostrum, you must use special absorbent pads or ordinary cotton pads
To prevent stretch marks, you need to take care of the elasticity of the skin. Daily cool showers and moisturizers will help with this. It can be a special cream for expectant mothers or cosmetic oils that increase the elasticity of the skin.
By properly caring for your breasts and providing them with good support, you can minimize discomfort during pregnancy.