Why Does a Pregnant Woman Experience Chest Pain?

After pregnancy, women experience significant physical changes due to alterations in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormonal changes directly impact the breasts, resulting in symptoms such as chest pain, which can be attributed to both physiological and pathological factors. Here are some common reasons for chest pain during pregnancy:

1. Breast Sensitivity and Soreness

Under the influence of hormones, the breasts of pregnant women undergo hyperplasia and development, accompanied by the proliferation of connective tissue around the mammary glands and an increase in fat deposition. This soreness is similar to the sensation women experience before menstruation, but it is more intense. This discomfort typically improves significantly after the third month of pregnancy.

2. Breast Enlargement

Under the influence of progesterone, the breasts of pregnant women gradually enlarge to ensure sufficient milk supply in the future. During the 3-4 months of pregnancy, the breasts grow rapidly, with slower growth in the second trimester and continued enlargement, albeit at a slower rate, in the third trimester.

3. Breast Soreness During Pregnancy

Some expectant mothers may experience breast soreness around 40 days after pregnancy due to the secretion of large amounts of estrogen and progesterone by the placenta and villi. This can lead to significant breast soreness that may persist throughout the pregnancy and often does not require treatment.

4. Other Symptoms

Breast pain during pregnancy is normal, especially in the eighth week. Most pregnant women experience breast enlargement, nipple pain, and darkening of the areola. These symptoms are related to the increase in estrogen and progesterone levels after pregnancy. Pregnant women undergo physiological changes throughout their bodies, manifesting in various symptoms across different organs. Around six weeks after the last menstrual period, most pregnant women experience symptoms of early pregnancy, such as morning nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, sleepiness, and fatigue.