Can Breast Pain Indicate Pregnancy? What You Need to Know

Chest pain can be a symptom of various conditions, but it is not typically associated with pregnancy. However, hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to breast tenderness or discomfort. If you are experiencing chest pain, it is important to consult

The menstrual cycle is 28 to 30 days, and the last menstrual period was on August 19.
A few months ago, a surgery for a breast fibroadenoma was performed.
Normally, there is no sharp or throbbing pain at the surgical site when menstruation occurs, but there is breast tenderness now, and the surgical site is painful to the touch.
When is the best time to take a pregnancy test? If pregnant, will it affect the area where the surgery was performed?

Luo Xiaohui, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/07

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

To confirm pregnancy, you should wait until after your missed period or at least two weeks after your last sexual intercourse.
Breast tenderness is not necessarily an indication of pregnancy; it can occur simply due to elevated hormone levels.
Even if you are pregnant, it will not affect the area where you previously had breast surgery.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/09/07

More Info

Breast pain can indeed be an indicator of pregnancy, but it is important to understand the context and the underlying mechanisms involved. During the menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations, particularly the rise in estrogen and progesterone, can lead to breast tenderness and swelling. This is commonly experienced in the premenstrual phase and can be exacerbated by conditions such as fibrocystic breast changes or previous surgeries, like a fibroadnexal tumor excision.

In your case, since you mentioned that your last menstrual period was on August 19 and you have undergone surgery for a breast fibroadnexal tumor, it is essential to consider both the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and the effects of your previous surgery. If you suspect you might be pregnant, the best time to take a pregnancy test is typically after you have missed your period. This is usually about one week after your expected period date, as this allows for sufficient levels of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) to be present in your urine for an accurate test result.

Regarding your concern about whether pregnancy could affect the area where you had surgery, it is generally safe for most women to become pregnant after breast surgery. However, hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to increased breast tissue growth and changes in sensitivity, which may cause discomfort or pain in the area of your previous surgery. If you experience significant pain or any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider or a specialist in breast health. They can perform a thorough examination and possibly imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or mammogram, to ensure that everything is normal.

It is also worth noting that breast pain during pregnancy is common and can be attributed to the increased levels of hormones that prepare the body for breastfeeding. This can lead to swelling, tenderness, and even the development of lumps that may feel more pronounced than before. However, if you notice any new lumps or changes in your breast tissue, it is crucial to seek medical advice to rule out any potential issues.

In summary, breast pain can be a symptom of pregnancy due to hormonal changes, and it is advisable to wait until after your missed period to take a pregnancy test for the most accurate result. If you have concerns about your previous surgery and how it may be affected by pregnancy, or if you experience significant pain, consulting with a healthcare professional is the best course of action. They can provide personalized advice and reassurance based on your medical history and current symptoms.

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