Why Breast Tenderness During Pregnancy

Some form of Breast tenderness during pregnancy usually starts around 4-6 weeks and lasts throughout the first trimester and may even stretch beyond the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. It is considered one of the earliest signs of pregnancy and the sensation is likened to the feeling you get just before your periods, only more intense.

Causes of Breast tenderness during pregnancy

• Increased blood flow

• Changes in tissue

• Rise in hormonal levels (oestrogen and progesterone)

The changes you may see and feel..

• Breasts may feel swollen, lumpy, sore and sensitive to the touch

• Tingling, painful nipples

• Itching

• More visible veins

• Stretch marks due to stretched skin

• Bigger and darker nipples and areolas

• Bumps on areolas become more obvious (these sebaceous glands produce serum to keep your nipples soft and supple)

Breast care and maintenance...

Most women increase by at least one cup size during the entire course of pregnancy but there are some who see no change in size. Breasts that don't grow any bigger or heavier are considered normal and at the end of the day do produce breast milk for baby. Bigger breasts don't mean more milk but they sure do mean new bras. Keep these handy tips in mind:

• Your breasts need extra support; try a variety before deciding on the one that best supports your pregnant form

• Forget bras with underwire for a while; they are too restrictive

• Opt for cotton bras as they are more comfortable and breathable than synthetic versions. Choose a variety that is soft, smooth and seamless to prevent skin abrasion

• Get the right size

• Buy bras that are a little roomy since your breasts continue to expand gradually throughout your pregnancy

The right fit

To get your true size, you need to measure around your chest, just beneath the breasts, add 5 inches to this digit to get your band size. Next measure around the fullest part of your breasts and deduct your chest measurement from this number. A 1-inch difference makes you an A cup, 2 inches makes you B, 3 inches a C, 4 inches a D cup and 5 inches a double D and so on. So if your chest measures at 31 and your breast measures at 34 you need to get bras size 36C.