What are the causes of breast pain in early pregnancy?

Generally, the causes of chest pain in early pregnancy may include improper underwear, hormonal changes, mastitis, pleurisy, and breast fibroadenoma. Symptomatic treatments such as general therapy, medication, or surgery may be required. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Improper Underwear

In early pregnancy, wearing tight or ill-fitting underwear can compress and constrict the chest, worsening breast tenderness and discomfort. Inappropriate undergarments may restrict normal breast development and blood circulation, while trauma may damage breast tissue, leading to pain. It is recommended to switch to comfortable, soft, and loose-fitting underwear to alleviate swelling and pain.

2. Hormonal Changes

After pregnancy, secretion of estrogen and progesterone significantly increases in women's bodies. Estrogen promotes proliferation and dilation of breast ducts, while progesterone stimulates development of mammary alveoli. These hormonal effects can cause breast tissue congestion and edema, resulting in a feeling of breast fullness and pain. It is recommended to perform moderate breast massage in daily life to relieve discomfort.

3. Mastitis

Mastitis is associated with infections or spread of surrounding infectious foci. In early pregnancy, inflammatory changes in the breast area may cause chest pain. Some pregnant women may also experience symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes on the affected side and localized lumps. It is recommended to follow medical advice and take oral medications such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, amoxicillin capsules, or penicillin V potassium tablets to alleviate symptoms.

4. Pleurisy

Pleurisy may be caused by infections, including bacterial, tuberculosis, or viral factors. In the early stages of the disease, when the amount of pleural effusion is small, the parietal and visceral pleura rub against each other, causing chest pain characterized by sharp, stabbing sensations that worsen with deep breathing or coughing. It is recommended to undergo treatment under a physician's guidance using medications such as aspirin tablets, isoniazid tablets, or penicillin V potassium capsules.

5. Breast Fibroadenoma

Fibroadenoma is a benign tumor. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy may stimulate its growth, causing breast pain or discomfort. A hard mass or lump may be felt within the breast, typically round or oval in shape with clear boundaries. Fibroadenomas detected during pregnancy are generally recommended for surgical removal after childbirth.

It is recommended to gently wash the breasts with warm water daily, avoiding the use of harsh soaps or detergents, which can promote blood circulation and relieve discomfort.