Tips to cope with sore breasts during pregnancy

Keep them cool

As your hormone levels even out towards the end of the first trimester your breasts may feel less tender, although they could feel sore or hot on and off throughout your pregnancy.  'I’ve noticed they are really hot – like a hot water bottle,' says iVillager aamielouise. 

A cold compress can help soothe that burning sensation – try a cold flannel, bag of frozen veg or wear a couple of cooled cabbage leaves inside your bra.

Wear a bra at night

In the early weeks of pregnancy rising levels of oestrogen and progesterone can contribute to breasts feeling tender, as can growing milk glands and an increased layer of fat as your body prepares to feed your baby.  

Even turning over in bed can be uncomfortable, but wearing a bra at night can prevent breasts from moving too much, and help you to sleep better.  Go for cotton which will allow your skin to breathe and prevent you from getting too hot.

Creams

As your breasts continue to grow they may itch, become increasingly sensitive or develop stretch marks. 

Lanolin cream can help keep skin supple, as can products containing cocoa or shea butter – keep them in the fridge for an added cooling effect.  Wash as usual, but avoid using soap on your breasts, especially around the nipple area, to minimise irritation.

Hands off

Aching, tingling, stabbing, throbbing - it’s little wonder you can’t bear your breasts to be touched.  As loz says: 'They are still sore and tender and now I have veins all over them.  My DH is very impressed with my new size but if he so much as breathes near them…'  

He won’t know unless you tell him, so explain they’re off limits for a while rather than flinching or snapping at him every time he goes near you.

Take a warm bath

Some women find standing under a warm shower can relieve sore boobs, while for others the spray just makes things worse. 

If it’s too much try a bath instead, but make sure the water is no hotter than your own body temperature – under 37C is best – as overheating could be harmful for your baby.  Avoid perfumed soaps or products which might irritate your skin further.

Natural remedies

Your GP will happily recommend over the counter solutions for breast pain, but if you prefer to go down the natural route there are a few things you could try. 

Calendula and chamomile can both help ward off infection and ease pain – try placing chamomile tea bags on your breasts to help reduce swelling. 

Calc.fluor, Vitamin E and Silica are all reported to relieve itching, but always take advice from a qualified practitioner before taking any herbal remedies during pregnancy.

Drink more water

Believe it or not, a simple glass of water could help when it comes to aching or swollen boobs. Water retention can make things worse, so anything which helps your body rid the body of excess fluids is a good thing. 

Avoid salt and caffeine, and try drinking tea from natural diuretics like dandelion, fennel or nettle - Vitamin B6 is also said to help.