Breast and Abdominal Swelling During Pregnancy Concerns

Questions about pregnancy?

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my girlfriend, who has recently mentioned that she feels swelling in both her breasts and abdomen.
This sensation has persisted for a week, and she has also noticed white discharge from her nipples that resembles milk.
However, her menstrual period this month was on time and the flow was normal, so there were no issues there.
She has taken two pregnancy tests due to concerns about potential pregnancy, both of which were negative.
Despite this, we are still worried, and I would like to ask if there could be any problems.
Additionally, after her period, we have had multiple instances of sexual intercourse.
Could the frequency of sexual activity cause a rapid secretion of progesterone or hormones in women, leading to the symptoms mentioned? I am quite confused and concerned, so I would appreciate your insights.
Thank you.

Xiao Long, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/05/29

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
You can test for prolactin levels to see if they are elevated.
2.
Sexual activity will not affect this, but it may be caused by medications, pregnancy, or elevated prolactin levels.

Reply Date: 2001/05/29

More Info

Breast and abdominal swelling during pregnancy can be concerning, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as discharge. In your girlfriend's case, the swelling in her breasts and abdomen, along with the white discharge resembling milk, raises several points for consideration.
Firstly, it is important to note that breast swelling and tenderness are common symptoms experienced by women due to hormonal changes, particularly during the menstrual cycle. The hormonal fluctuations can lead to increased blood flow and fluid retention in the breast tissue, causing a feeling of fullness or swelling. This can occur even if menstruation is regular and normal, as hormonal changes can still affect breast tissue regardless of the menstrual cycle.

The white discharge from the nipples, especially if it resembles milk, could be a sign of galactorrhea, which is the production of breast milk in women who are not breastfeeding or pregnant. This condition can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, certain medications, or even stress. It is essential to consider whether your girlfriend has been under significant stress or has been taking any medications that could influence her hormonal levels.

Regarding the abdominal swelling, it could be due to several reasons, including hormonal changes, gastrointestinal issues, or even premenstrual symptoms. If the swelling is persistent and accompanied by discomfort or pain, it would be advisable for her to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

You mentioned that your girlfriend's menstrual cycle has been regular and that she has tested negative for pregnancy. This is reassuring, but if she continues to experience unusual symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend blood tests to check hormone levels, as well as imaging studies if necessary.

As for the frequency of sexual activity, while it can lead to increased hormonal activity, it is unlikely to cause significant changes in hormone levels that would lead to the symptoms described. However, sexual activity can sometimes lead to temporary changes in the body, including increased blood flow to the pelvic area, which might contribute to sensations of fullness or swelling.

In summary, while breast and abdominal swelling can be attributed to normal hormonal changes, the presence of white discharge and persistent symptoms warrants further investigation. Encourage your girlfriend to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions and to receive appropriate guidance. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns, especially when symptoms persist or cause anxiety.

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