Armpit pain during pregnancy: causes, symptoms, and solutions

Pregnancy comes with many physical changes. Among them, pain in the armpit may appear and worry you. Is it simply an effect of hormones? When should you consult a healthcare professional? How can you relieve the pain?

Armpit pain during pregnancy: let’s take a closer look.

Common causes of armpit pain during pregnancy

Armpit pain is a common symptom during pregnancy. It can have several causes, ranging from simple physiological reactions to situations that require medical attention. Here are the main causes to know.

Armpit pain during pregnancy: hormonal changes

During pregnancy, the rise in hormones affects your tissues, especially those in the breast and axillary regions (the area under the armpit). Under the effect of estrogen and progesterone:

• Breast tissues prepare for breastfeeding, thicken and become more sensitive. This growth can extend to the armpits, where accessory breast tissue sometimes naturally exists.
• Small skin lesions such as molluscum fibrosum gravidarum may appear: these are small benign growths that can develop under the armpits.

These changes can make the axillary region painful, especially when touched or if clothing rubs against the area.

Armpit pain during pregnancy: swollen lymph nodes

Axillary lymph nodes play an essential role in immune defense. During pregnancy, the lymphatic system is particularly active and may lead to:

• Increased lymphatic volume: due to hormones and the body’s adaptation, it is not uncommon for lymph nodes under the armpit to become larger or more sensitive.
• A reaction to a mild infection: a simple cold or minor skin infection can cause temporary lymph node inflammation, making the area painful to the touch.

Armpit pain during pregnancy: other possible causes

In addition to hormonal and lymph node causes, other factors may explain armpit pain during pregnancy:

• Skin infections: a minor infection, for example due to an abscess or folliculitis (after shaving or hair removal), can cause localized pain with redness or warmth.
• Cysts: the appearance of benign cysts is common and generally harmless.
• Muscle pain: postural changes, carrying heavy items, or muscle tension related to pregnancy may cause pain that radiates to the armpits.

Rest assured! In most cases, it is neither a tumor nor breast cancer but rather a normal response to pregnancy. Simple irritation due to sweating, heat, or an ingrown hair can also sometimes be a source of pain. In all the situations listed, the condition is temporary. However, cases that require consultation with a healthcare professional will be discussed later in this article.

Want to learn more? Feel free to download the May app, where you’ll find plenty of resources to support and guide you throughout your pregnancy.

When should you worry about armpit pain during pregnancy?

Armpit pain during pregnancy is usually harmless, but there are situations where caution is necessary. Here is what to watch for and what to expect if medical care is needed.

Armpit pain during pregnancy: symptoms to watch for

Certain signs require prompt consultation with a healthcare professional. Pay attention to the following:

• A persistent or hard lump: the presence of a nodule or lump under the armpit, especially if it does not disappear or grows in size, should be evaluated to rule out a breast tumor, cyst, or lymph node issue.
• Redness, warmth, or significant swelling: these signs may indicate a local infection. A painful, red, and warm armpit accompanied by fever requires prompt medical attention.
• Sudden, severe, and unusual pain: intense, abrupt pain or pain that does not improve with rest is a reason to seek medical advice.
• Changes in the appearance of the skin: the appearance of lesions, ulcerations, or an “orange peel” texture on the armpit or breast area.
• Large and painful axillary lymph nodes: if lymph nodes become very swollen, hard, or are accompanied by other general symptoms.
• Personal medical history: if you have previously had a cancerous tumor or breast surgery, it is important to inform your healthcare professional quickly.
• Armpit pain accompanied by breast pain, a lump, or skin changes should also prompt consultation.

Armpit pain during pregnancy: recommended medical tests

If your doctor or midwife considers it necessary, several tests may be recommended to determine the cause of armpit pain during pregnancy:

• Clinical palpation: performed at the beginning of the examination, it helps identify a mass, abnormal lymph node, or particularly painful area.
• An axillary and breast ultrasound: this painless exam allows visualization of breast tissue and lymph nodes and can help identify a cyst, tumor, or suspicious lesion.
• A biopsy: if a suspicious mass is found, a biopsy may be performed to analyze the cells and check for cancerous cells.
• A blood test: useful if an infection or lymphatic condition is suspected, to evaluate overall health and detect signs of inflammation.

Even though most axillary pain during pregnancy is benign, it is always best to consult if you have any doubts, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. Early diagnosis allows for appropriate care.

Tips to relieve armpit pain during pregnancy

Armpit pain during pregnancy can be uncomfortable in everyday life. Fortunately, a few simple adjustments can make a real difference. Here are some practical tips to reduce discomfort in the axillary area:

• Adopt gentle and suitable hygiene: choose a mild soap without fragrance or alcohol to avoid irritating the armpit skin, which is particularly sensitive during pregnancy. Avoid harsh deodorants or those containing endocrine disruptors. Choose the most natural option possible, preferably organic.
• Wear comfortable clothing: opt for loose tops made of breathable cotton that do not irritate the axillary area. Avoid tight straps or synthetic fabrics that can increase moisture and promote infection.
• Moisturize regularly: apply a hypoallergenic moisturizing cream after showering to reduce skin dryness and prevent the appearance of small lesions or benign cysts.
• Use soothing compresses: if the area is painful or swollen, apply a warm or cold compress to the armpit for a few minutes several times a day. If the pain persists, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.

Good to know: in case of excessive sweating due to hormone-related hyperhidrosis, wash and dry your armpits thoroughly to prevent irritation and reduce the risk of infection.

Warning: many anti-inflammatory medications or ointments are not suitable during pregnancy. Never use topical or oral anti-inflammatories without advice from your doctor or midwife.

In summary, armpit pain during pregnancy is a common symptom, most often related to hormonal changes, breast tissue modifications, or a benign reaction of the lymph nodes.

Although this discomfort can be inconvenient in daily life, it is generally temporary and harmless, and is part of the many physiological changes that accompany pregnancy. However, staying attentive to unusual or persistent signs allows you to act quickly if necessary.

**

Crédits photos : Rawpixel | micens | Zinkevych_D

This text was translated from French by an artificial intelligence. The information, advice, and sources it contains comply with French standards and may therefore not apply to your situation. Make sure to complement this reading by visiting the May US/UK app and consulting the healthcare professionals who are supporting you.