Feeling Chest Swelling and Pain During Menstruation? Let's Explore Causes and Solutions!
Table of contents
・Why Does the Chest Swell During Menstruation?
・Dealing with Chest Swelling Externally
・Dealing with Chest Swelling Internally
Why Does the Chest Swell During Menstruation?
Swelling in the Chest Before and After Menstruation: Is It "Edema"?
It's common for women to experience chest swelling before and during menstruation. This is closely linked to the hormone progesterone, which is significantly secreted after ovulation. Progesterone has the effect of retaining water in the body. The chest swelling before and after menstruation can be thought of as "edema." After ovulation, when the body aims to create an environment conducive to pregnancy, progesterone accumulates water in the endometrium, preparing it for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.
Progesterone not only affects the endometrium but also influences the mammary glands. Consequently, water is retained in the chest, leading to swelling and discomfort. Additionally, it expands blood vessels in the mammary glands, making it easy to feel pain with slight stimulation or body movement.
Chest Swelling Persists Even After the Menstrual Cycle...
The secretion of progesterone, the edema hormone, peaks during the premenstrual luteal phase and decreases when menstruation begins. Alongside this, chest swelling tends to subside. However, if stress or an unhealthy lifestyle persists, disrupting hormonal balance, progesterone may continue to be secreted in abundance even during menstruation, leading to persistent chest swelling.
The brain is highly sensitive to stress. When brain function decreases, the commands for hormone secretion might not work properly. This can result in increased progesterone secretion even during menstruation, causing continued chest swelling.
If chest swelling is a transient symptom before and after menstruation, it's likely edema due to hormonal influence, and there's no need to worry about illness. However, if the swelling persists after menstruation, is painful, or if lumps are felt, there could be an underlying health issue. To avoid overlooking any potential illness, it's advisable to seek a specialist's diagnosis.
Dealing with Chest Swelling Externally
When you feel chest swelling, breast massage can be effective. Gently massage in circular motions around the chest to relax the chest muscles, improve stagnant blood flow, and alleviate pain. Performing this with a comfortable tempo and rhythm, using massage oil with a preferred scent, especially after a bath, can enhance its effectiveness.
Moreover, if you feel breathless due to chest swelling during the day, switching to a bra with a one-cup larger size or opting for a non-wired bra can make you feel more comfortable.
Dealing with Chest Swelling Internally
For those prone to chest swelling, revising lifestyle habits and dietary choices can contribute to relief. Since chest swelling is easily influenced by hormonal balance, start by establishing a regular daily rhythm. Aim for a lifestyle with early bedtime and waking, and focus on a well-balanced diet with three meals a day, considering the five major nutrients (carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins).
Calcium and vitamin B6 are nutrients that can contribute to relieving chest swelling. Calcium deficiency is said to be associated with premenstrual discomfort. Efficient sources of calcium include milk and soy products. Small fish like shirasu (whitebait) and seaweed also contain high levels of calcium, making them good additions to your meals.
Vitamin B6 deficiency can disrupt hormone balance. It is abundant in foods like bonito, liver, and bananas, so actively incorporating these into your diet is recommended.
If it's challenging to obtain these nutrients through regular meals, supplements or traditional herbal remedies are also good options.
When you sense a bit of chest swelling, try massage or dietary adjustments. If the pain is too severe, consider the possibility of an illness and, if necessary, consult with a healthcare professional.