PMS breast tenderness

PMS or premenstual syndrome is something that many women go through several days before they get their period. It involves a host of symptoms, whose severity varies from woman to woman. All the symptoms do not necessarily have to go together. Some women only become irritable or depressed and some only have cravings. Breast tenderness is one of the common symptoms of PMS.

Breast tenderness during PMS involves sore and swollen breasts and discomfort in the area. The pain can be so intense that it is difficult to touch the breasts, to wear a normal bra or any bra at all and the discomfort is particularly present during the night.

Causes of breast tenderness in PMS

There are several different causes that may lead to breast tenderness during PMS, but the predominant one is hormonal imbalance. As the menstrual cycle approaches, the levels of progesterone and estrogen change and vary in different ways. When the estrogen levels are low and progesterone is high, the breasts become enlarged. The hormone levels continue to change and it leads to pain and tenderness of the breasts. When the menstrual flow is over, the hormonal levels change again to a different ratio and breasts go back to their normal size and condition.

Remedies and treatment for breast tenderness in PMS

A good bra support is one of the best ways to cope with tender breasts during PMS. Many women think they would feel better if they simply took the bra off, but in that case the breasts would actually become even more painful. It is better to use a different bra, maybe a sport one or a bra designed for pregnant women. Many women have found that purchasing one good supportive bra that is one size bigger than the regular one, and wearing it during PMS, is a good solution for this problem.

If the pain is really intense, pain killers can help. However, frequent use of pain killers is not recommended so it is best to take one only when the pain is intolerable.

Certain dietary changes can help a lot with PMS symptoms, including tender breasts. Foods high in sodium or salty foods should be avoided because they lead to additional water retention and hence to even more swollen breasts. It is also recommended to stay off fatty foods and processed sugar. Coffee and other beverages with caffeine should also be avoided. This type of diet should be started ten to 15 days before the period.

Taking vitamin supplements, especially vitamins A, B6 and E, can also be helpful.