Breast Tenderness
Swollen tender breasts are common before a period, during pregnancy or with women taking hormones in the form of the contraceptive pill or HRT. Hormonal changes cause fluid to be trapped in fatty tissue in the breasts and this is what causes the painful swelling. It is important to seek medical advice to determine the cause. If you are pregnant, consult your doctor before trying self help measures.
Dietary Advice To Reduce Breast Tenderness
Stick to a low salt, low fat diet as fatty foods may increase estrogen levels and salt retains the fluid that causes pain and tenderness. Caffeine and alcohol also cause fluid retention, so these should be avoided. If you eat meat it may help to choose organic produce, as animals reared non-organically are fed growth hormones, which may be passed along in the food chain.
As with breast lumps, evening primrose oil supplements may be of help. In addition, a diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables helps to keep the body healthy and balanced.
Complimentary Natural Remedies For Breast Tenderness
A cleaned, bruised cabbage leaf, when placed against your breast inside your bra, may help to relieve fluid retention.
If you experience breast pain and tenderness due to swelling in pregnancy, you could try the homeopathic remedy Conium 6c every 4 hours for up to five days.
The essential oils geranium, lavender, German and Roman chamomile can also help. Add 4 to 6 drops of oil to 600 m1 of warm water and make a lukewarm compress using a clean piece of cotton. Afterwards, add 10 drops chamomile or 15 drops lavender or geranium to 30 g unperfumed skin cream or 50 ml carrier oil. Apply very gently without massaging.
