Enlargement of Lymph Nodes in the Armpit
I am a 34-year-old woman, and I recently gave birth to my second child on June 7. Shortly after her arrival, I was rehospitalized due to postpartum preeclampsia. During my stay, I noticed a significant lump in my armpit, roughly the size of a tennis ball, as my breast milk began to flow. Healthcare professionals assured me that this was a common occurrence related to the milk production, and the lump eventually subsided. However, just last week, I experienced mastitis, and it took a few days for my medication to take effect. To ensure there were no complications, I underwent an ultrasound to check for any possible abscesses in my breasts. While no abscesses were detected, it was noted that one of my lymph nodes was swollen. I vaguely recall it being slightly enlarged during my pregnancy but didn’t think much of it at the time. I have an upcoming appointment on August 4 to follow up with another ultrasound. Naturally, I am feeling anxious about my health and worrying about potential worst-case scenarios. Is it common for lymph nodes to swell during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Answers (1)
7/12/2025, 1:50:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel anxious about swollen lymph nodes, especially after experiencing complications like mastitis and recent hospitalization. Swelling of lymph nodes can occur for various reasons, including infections and hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Explanation:
Lymph nodes are part of your immune system and can swell in response to various factors, such as infections (like mastitis), inflammation, or hormonal fluctuations. It’s not uncommon for women to notice swollen lymph nodes during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes, and this can sometimes become more noticeable with conditions like mastitis.
Although it’s reassuring that no abscesses were detected, it’s important to continue monitoring the lymph node. Swelling typically resolves as the body recovers from infections, but it’s good to stay aware of any changes.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Monitor the Swelling: Keep an eye on the size of the lymph node. If it decreases as your mastitis resolves, that’s usually a good sign.
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Document Symptoms: Write down any other symptoms you may experience, such as fever, continued tenderness, or changes in the lump, to discuss at your next appointment.
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Stay Hydrated and Rest: Proper hydration and rest can assist your body in recovery post-mastitis, aiding your immune system.
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Attend Your Follow-up Appointment: Be prepared to discuss your concerns at your upcoming ultrasound appointment. Mention any changes you’ve noticed and your history of swelling during pregnancy.
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Reassurance and Support: If your anxiety continues, consider speaking with a trusted friend, family member, or a professional who can help you process these feelings. It’s completely normal to feel uneasy after health events, especially around childbirth.
Continue caring for yourself and your baby, and focus on your upcoming appointment where you can get more clarity. Overall, it sounds like you’re doing your best to manage your health during this time!
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