Pregnancy Symptoms: Swollen & Tender Breasts

After conception your breasts will become increasingly tender and swollen. This symptom is comparable to how your breasts feel before you start your period. During pregnancy, hormonal changes increase the amount of blood flowing to your breasts, causing them to swell and be sensitive. However, once your body grows accustomed to the increased blood flow, the pain will subside. This symptom will start around four to six weeks of pregnancy and will last through the first trimester.

Why Are Your Breasts Sore?

Your body is preparing to feed your baby once it's born, meaning your breasts must grow and your milk-ducts develop. After conception, your breasts go through the following changes:

• Estrogen and progesterone hormone levels increase, causing blood to flow into your breasts. This will cause them to swell and become tender.
• Your breast tissue also begins to change: milk ducts and milk-producing cells begin to form, causing your breasts to swell and grow.
• Layers of fat will develop underneath your breasts to help facilitate these changes.

Common Symptoms

The intensity of these symptoms will vary for each woman. However, common symptoms can include the following:

• Darkened nipples and areolas; hormones can affect skin pigmentation.
• Darkened veins along your breasts.
• Your breasts might start leaking a thick, yellowish substance known as colostrum.
• Burning, throbbing, or tingling in the breasts
• Itchy or tingling breast and/or nipples.

It's also important to find a bra with proper support for your changing breasts. Avoid bras with an underwire, and try to buy bras made of breathable fabric like cotton. Try taking a warm bath to help alleviate the soreness.