Why Do My Breasts Hurt in Early Pregnancy?

Breast tenderness is often one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. For some people it is mild discomfort or an unusual tingling sensation around the breast, while for others it can feel surprisingly intense, making everyday movement uncomfortable. When this pain appears early on it can raise questions about what is normal and whether it is something to worry about.

Breast pain in early pregnancy is usually linked to hormonal changes and is very common. This article explains why breast tenderness happens, what is considered typical, and when breast pain may need medical assessment.

Why breasts hurt in early pregnancy

In early pregnancy, rising levels of oestrogen and progesterone begin preparing the breasts for milk production. These hormonal changes increase blood flow and cause breast tissue to change, which can lead to soreness, heaviness or sensitivity.

Some women may notice:

• A dull ache or tenderness
  
• Sensitivity to touch
  
• A feeling of fullness or heaviness
  
• Darkening of the areola
  

These changes can begin very early, sometimes before a missed period has even been noticed. It’s worth remembering that breast tenderness can be a very normal part of the menstrual cycle and when you’re trying to conceive, every symptom can feel like a positive sign of pregnancy. It is normal to recognise more symptoms of your menstrual cycle when trying to conceive as you pay more attention to your body in this heightened state of trying to work out what it going on!

What does normal breast tenderness feel like?

Breast tenderness that is commonly considered normal in early pregnancy often:

• Affects both breasts
  
• Feels sore, heavy or sensitive rather than sharp
  
• Comes and goes throughout the day
  
• Is worse in the morning or at the end of the day
  

For many people, this discomfort settles as the body adjusts to hormonal changes, although it may return at different points in pregnancy.

Can breast pain come and go?

Yes. Breast tenderness can fluctuate day to day, just like other early pregnancy symptoms. Changes in symptom intensity are usually linked to natural hormonal variation and are not, on their own, a cause for concern.

If you are noticing symptoms that come and go, you may find reassurance in our article Early Pregnancy Symptoms That Come and Go: Is This Normal?

When breast pain may be unusual

While breast tenderness is common, there are situations where medical advice should be sought.

Contact your GP or midwife if:

• Pain is localised to one area
  
• You notice redness, warmth or swelling
  
• There is nipple discharge that is bloody or unusual
  
• You develop a high temperature or feel unwell
  

These symptoms are uncommon in early pregnancy but should be assessed by a medical practitioner.

Managing breast discomfort

Some people find relief by:

• Wearing a supportive, well-fitting bra
  
• Avoiding underwired bras if uncomfortable
  
• Sleeping in a soft support bra
  
• Avoiding unnecessary pressure or friction
  

Pain relief options should always be discussed with a healthcare professional before use in pregnancy. If your breast pain is enough to require pain relief, you should contact your GP or midwife for further advice. 

Bra Fitting in pregnancy

We’ve got a handy guide at Pregnancy Pal for pregnancy bra fittings and what to look for in support that takes you from early pregnancy through to the postnatal period.

Pregnancy Bra Fitting Guide

Key points

• Breast tenderness is a common early pregnancy symptom
  
• Hormonal changes are the most common cause
  
• Symptoms may fluctuate
  
• Seek medical advice if pain is localised, worsening or associated with other symptoms
  

References and further reading

• https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/common-symptoms/common-health-problems/
  
• https://bcuhb.nhs.wales/health-advice/best-start/breast-care-and-breast-health/