Breast Tenderness

A Good Bra

"A good-fitting bra worn 24 hours a day can be very helpful," Collins says. "Underwire bras may actually cause more discomfort as the underwire may lie across some tissue at the bottom of the breast. Maternity sports bras are a nice choice. Cotton bras are good because they allow for air flow and evaporation of sweat better than some synthetic blends."

Just make sure you get a supportive bra in the right size. "Many people wear bras that become too tight in pregnancy," says Dr. Binkley, who recommends getting a bra sizing done, and purchasing at least one or two bras in a more comfortable size. "Also, it's important not to purchase nursing bras until the milk comes in after delivering the baby," she says. "Breast size can double or triple when the milk comes in."

Consider sleeping in the bra, even at night. For some women, feeling the sheets next to bare nipples is very uncomfortable, and fuller breasts without adequate support are also uncomfortable. Nighttime may also mean getting used to a new sleeping position. Felts normally sleeps on her stomach, but had to stop because it hurt too much to lie on her sore breasts.