Breast Pain Due to Hormonal Imbalance

The feeling of your breasts becoming tight, firm, and prickling with pain is likely a familiar experience for many women. Since breast tenderness is closely related to the female menstrual cycle, it’s important to understand the mechanisms behind it.

Times When Breast Pain is Likely: Ovulation and Luteal Phases

A woman’s body undergoes four phases tied to hormonal changes: the follicular phase, ovulation, luteal phase, and menstruation. Of these, breast pain is most common during ovulation and the luteal phase.

After ovulation (the latter part of the ovulation phase), the secretion of progesterone (the luteal hormone) increases. Progesterone has a tendency to encourage water retention in the mammary glands. This leads to a swollen feeling in the breasts, which can cause breast pain and tenderness during the ovulation and luteal phases.

Symptoms during these phases often include:

• The chest feels firm and prickly.
• Swelling discomfort with a sense of heaviness.
• Soreness in the nipples and a feeling of tightness that may cause itching.

External Remedies for Breast Pain

Gentle massage can be effective for relieving breast pain. Use soft, circular motions around the breast to improve blood flow and reduce discomfort by relaxing the tissue. Applying a massage oil with a soothing scent can enhance the experience. For the best results, massage after a warm bath when the body is relaxed.

If breast pain makes it hard to breathe or feels constrictive, consider wearing a larger or non-wired bra to ease the pressure.

Internal Remedies for Breast Pain

For those who often experience breast pain, adjustments in daily routines and diet may help. Hormonal balance is crucial, so try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, balanced meals, and include the five major nutrients (carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins) in your diet.

Calcium and Vitamin B6 can be especially beneficial. A calcium deficiency may worsen premenstrual symptoms. Calcium is found in milk, soy products, sardines, and hijiki seaweed. Vitamin B6, which supports hormonal balance, is abundant in tuna, liver, and bananas.

If it’s challenging to get enough of these nutrients from food alone, consider supplements or herbal treatments.

When you first notice breast pain, try gentle massage or dietary adjustments to manage it. If the pain becomes severe, consider consulting a doctor to rule out any potential medical issues.