For many, experiencing tender breasts is one of the very first signs of being pregnant. The sensation of fullness, swelling, and tenderness in the breasts is due to the rising levels of pregnancy hormones. Primarily, it is the hormone oestrogen that causes breast tenderness. After a few months, the nipples and areolas also start to darken in pigment.
During pregnancy, the body prepares the breasts for breastfeeding, leading to increased fat tissue and growth of the milk-producing glands. Sometimes, breast tenderness occurs only in the beginning, while other times, it may persist throughout the entire pregnancy.
Sources:
- Abascal, G., & Huss, M. S. (2018). Att föda. Bonnier Fakta.
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