Causes, Symptoms & Treatment of Itchy Breats
Here’s an up-close and personal question - do your breasts feel itchy? Well, it can be quite uncomfortable and irritating. Experiencing itchy breasts sometimes is normal. But if it's a pattern where your breasts feel itchy just before a period, it could be signaling something more.
Typically, itchy breasts or nipples before a period are linked to hormonal fluctuations. However, there could be other causes of itchy breasts before period which might require a doctor’s attention. Thus, to help you out we’ve decoded itchy nipple causes along with its symptoms and treatment. Read on to learn more!
What Are the Causes of Itchy Nipple or Breasts?
1. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Before your period arrives, there’s a shift in your hormonal levels which causes certain changes in your body. You might feel bloated, nauseous, irritated and in rare cases, even depressed. Breast pain or itching before the menstrual cycle is just one of these PMS symptoms.
In this phase of the menstrual cycle, just before your period, estrogen levels drop which sometimes can swell up your breasts. In this process, the skin around the breasts or nipple region begins to stretch leading to itchiness.
Treatment - Lifestyle changes and a healthy diet help ease PMS symptoms; however, there isn’t any particular treatment for PMS-related itchy breasts. We recommend consulting a doctor who can help you bare the itching using certain medications. While that’s taken care of, looking after your menstrual hygiene is equally important. Thus, you should use premium-quality sanitary pads. Try the ALWAYS cotton soft Pads which are 2X softer and more flexible. The soft top sheet contains lotion protecting your skin from irritation and harm in addition to the extra-absorbent gel core that instantly absorbs liquid and locks it inside to prevent leakage.
2. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is quite similar to PMS but more intense as it often requires medical attention. Women with PMDD often experience itchy nipples before the period along with extreme mood swings.
Treatment: Your doctor will likely prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to soothe the itchiness. Likewise, stress management with a good diet and exercise can help you ease PMDD symptoms.
It isn’t necessary that itchy breasts would be a sign of an upcoming period and your breasts might feel itchy due to the following reasons too:
1. Pregnancy
As hormonal levels fluctuate and your nipples stretch to nurse your baby, it can cause tender, itchy breasts.
2. Skin Conditions
Atopic dermatitis, psoriasis or eczema can also affect the skin covering your breasts and cause redness or itching.
3. Clothing issues
A tight bra can leave little to no room for air to penetrate. It can easily make you sweat. The moistness and friction can make your breasts itch.
4. Cancer
Itchiness and breast pain can be an early sign of cancer in the rarest case. Known as Paget's disease, this condition is often accompanied by other symptoms like itching, pain, bleeding, discoloration or discharge from the nipple area.
Natural Remedies to Soothe Itchy Breasts
While doctors can prescribe your medications to soothe itchy breasts which are caused before your period, here’s what you can do at your end:
1. Wear Comfortable Bras
Your breasts need to breathe. So, switch to comfortable bras that are neither too tight nor too loose.
2. Use Moisturiser
You can use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers or aloe vera gel over the affected area. Make sure to consult the doctor before using any moisturizer on your breasts.
3. Avoid Scented Soaps
If you think that certain soaps are triggering itchiness, switch to unscented soaps
When To See a Doctor
Itchy boobs before periods aren’t always a reason to worry. However, if you face any of the following scenarios, you must consult a doctor immediately:
- Itchy nipples before, after or during a period accompanied by discharge from the nipples, bumps around the breasts, or discoloration.
- Persistent nipples and breast pain
- Severely itchy breasts during or after periods that don’t seem to calm down.
Takeaway
Itchy nipples or breasts before a period are typically a result of hormonal fluctuation. However, you must seek medical attention. The doctor can help you understand the real cause behind your itchy nipples and breast pain and provide you with the required treatment.
Stay well prepared for your next period by tracking it on Always Period Calculator
FAQs
1. Why do nipples get itchy before your period?
Typically, itchy nipples before a period are a result of a shift in your hormone levels. It could also be a symptom of PMS or PMDD. If the itching persists or becomes severe, consulting a doctor is a must.
2. Can itchy breasts be a sign of PMS?
Yes, itchy breasts can be a sign of PMS. It can be caused due to changing hormonal levels which is usually accompanied with breast tenderness, headache, and nausea.3. Does itchy nipples mean period or pregnancy?
Prior to your periods and during early pregnancy, hormones tend to fluctuate. The drop in estrogen levels can lead to swollen nipples. It stretches the tissues which causes your skin over the breast and nipple to itch. Speaking to a doctor can help you understand whether it's a period or pregnancy.Disclaimer:
Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified physician. Always Arabia is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; Always pads prioritize safety, protection and comfort of its consumers.