Sore Boobs? Here’s How To Deal With Your PMS Breasts
If it’s not enough that we bleed and have cramps each month, some of us also get to experience the joy that is painful breasts during our period.
Sore breasts are just another symptom of PMS but it can affect some women more than others. Typically they will be at their most tender just before your period, but you may also experience symptoms immediately and after your period as well.
The pain is thanks to oestrogen, which peaks mid-cycle, causing breast ducts to become enlarged. After your period, along comes progesterone, which causes your milk glands to grow.
Not only can these hormones make your boobs feel sore and tender but they can also make them feel physically different. They may feel denser to the touch and also lumpy. This is why it’s good idea to only do a self-examination of your breasts a week after your period.
There are some simple steps to take that may help reduce pain and tenderness:
Make sure your bra fits properly
Ill-fitting bras can cause a great deal of pain anyway, which will only feel worse during your period. This is especially important if your breasts swell and get larger during your cycle.
Avoid caffeine and salt
Both of these can make water retention worse so if that’s causing your painful breasts, cutting back on them a week or so before your period may help.
Pop a pill
Some medical experts recommend taking evening primrose oil to help with pain. If the pain is too much to bear, take paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Put the kettle on
While it’s good to avoid caffeine, you can still drink herbal teas. Dandelion tea in particular is great for reducing fluid retention, which in turn helps with the soreness. Chamomile tea is also a good choice as it relaxes you and helps with pain relief.
Do some exercise
While going for a vigorous run, with boobs that feel like they’re going to burst, might not be the best solution, a gentle walk or yoga can definitely help with pain. Just remember to wear a good fitting sports bra to give your boobs all the support you can.
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