Breast pain related to exercise may be experienced in up to 72% of exercising females outside of pregnancy/postpartum.
The reasons for this are unclear but are likely due to repetitive loading on the tissues of the breast.
Discomforts that may be present due to change in size/shape of breasts and lactation, can also be a factor in discomfort during exercise in the pregnancy/postpartum period.
To reduce the risk:
- Get fitted for a sports bra that offers support rather than compression – a professional fit may be helpful. To get you started, try this app: www.bra.edu.au
- Breastfeed or express before exercise, as fuller breasts may feel uncomfortable
- If doing exercise lying on stomach, use a pillow or rolled towel to give some support below breasts to reduce any discomfort lying on breasts (see www.breastfeeding.asn.au/resources/exercise-and-breastfeeding)
