Patient's question:
I just had a baby a few weeks ago, and lately I've been experiencing breast tenderness and pain. This has been going on for several days, and it hasn't improved at all.Doctor's answer:
Women mainly experience six types of breast pain.1. Breast Pain During Puberty: This typically occurs between the ages of 9 and 13. After the first menstrual period, the pain usually disappears on its own.
2. Breast Pain Before Menstruation: Many women experience breast fullness, hardness, and tenderness before their period. In severe cases, even slight vibrations or collisions can cause discomfort. This is due to the increase in estrogen levels before menstruation, leading to breast hyperplasia and edema in the interstitial tissue. These changes usually subside after the period.
3. Breast Pain During Pregnancy: Some women experience breast pain around the 40th day of pregnancy, as the placenta and trophoblasts secrete large amounts of estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin, causing breast enlargement and pain. In severe cases, the pain may persist throughout the pregnancy and does not require treatment.
4. Postpartum Breast Pain: Between 3 and 7 days after delivery, women often experience breast fullness, hardness, and pain. This is primarily due to lymphatic retention, venous congestion, interstitial edema, and blocked breast ducts.
5. Breast Pain After Abortion: This occurs because the sudden interruption of pregnancy causes a sharp drop in hormone levels, halting the growth of newly developed breasts, leading to breast lumps and pain.
6. Breast Pain After Sexual Intercourse: This is related to the physiological changes in the breasts during sex. Women with low libido or an unsatisfactory sexual relationship may find it difficult for their breasts to return to normal after intercourse, or the congestion and enlargement may not fully subside, resulting in persistent breast pain.
You should visit a hospital for a checkup to determine the cause, so that you can receive appropriate treatment.