Along with swollen feet and morning sickness, it's common for pregnant women to experience varying degrees of breast aches and pains. While there is no way to prevent pregnancy-related breast aches, safe and effective options are available for alleviating the pain. Speak with a doctor before taking any over-the-counter medication for breast pain; choose the treatment method that is right for you.
Clothing
Avoid leaving your breasts unsupported. Gravity will pull them downward and worsen the pain with pressure. Wear a high-quality maternity bra or get professionally fitted for daytime bras. When exercising, wear a sturdy, supportive sports bra. In the evening, resist the temptation to go without a bra; invest in a pregnancy sleep bra or a breastfeeding bra. They provide support during the nocturnal hours and keep you from waking up sore.
Home Remedies
Numbing or relaxing your breasts can help ease the pain. Apply an ice pack or a heating pad to your breasts for five-minute intervals to relieve the discomfort. If your breasts feel tense or extra heavy, give yourself a gentle breast massage. If you lie on your stomach or side, place a pillow underneath your breasts for extra support.
Medications
Take an over-the-counter painkiller, such as acetaminophen, to help ease breast pain. Avoid non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, which can harm a fetus. Don't take oral contraceptives or prescription medications such as danazol and tamoxifen. Some pregnant women find relief in taking magnesium supplements, which can aid muscle and nerve function. Speak at length with your doctor before taking any medication to avoid unwanted and potentially serious side effects.
Other Treatments
Manipulating your diet may help ease breast pain. For example, following a low-fat diet may, over time, lead to a decrease in breast pain. Some women also report a decrease in breast aches after reducing their caffeine consumption, but no medical evidence supports this. Meditation, regular relaxation and a soothing environment can help you focus on things other than your breast pain and lessen your overall discomfort.
