Patient's question:
Six months postpartum, I breastfeed my child twice a day in the morning and evening. However, whether or not I have milk, my breasts are very painful when touched. What could be the reason for this?Doctor's answer:
Hello:Many women often experience breast tenderness. Medical professionals, after long-term observation and research, have identified six main types of breast tenderness in women.
1. Breast tenderness during puberty: This typically occurs between the ages of 9 and 13 and usually disappears on its own after the first menstrual period.
2. Breast tenderness before menstruation: Many women experience breast fullness, hardness, and tenderness before their menstrual 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 breast tissue. These changes usually disappear after the menstrual period.
3. Breast tenderness during pregnancy: Some women experience breast tenderness around the 40th day of pregnancy, as the placenta and trophoblasts secrete large amounts of estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin, causing breast enlargement and tenderness. In severe cases, the pain may persist throughout the pregnancy and does not require treatment.
4. Breast tenderness after childbirth: From 3 to 7 days after childbirth, women often experience breast fullness, hard lumps, and pain. This is primarily due to lymphatic retention in the breast, engorged veins, interstitial edema, and blocked breast ducts.
5. Breast tenderness after induced abortion: Sudden pregnancy interruption leads to a sharp drop in hormone levels, causing the newly developed breasts to stop growing abruptly, resulting in breast lumps and pain.
6. Breast tenderness after sexual intercourse: This is related to the physiological changes in the breasts during sexual activity. 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 subside.