Here is what mums asked our midwives this week: upper chest tightness in pregnancy

Chest tightness is one of those pregnancy symptoms that can feel really alarming, especially when it seems to come out of nowhere. This week a mum asked us whether the upper chest tightness she had been feeling could be related to her ribs expanding or her diaphragm shifting. Here is what our midwives had to say.

Is upper chest tightness normal in pregnancy?

Yes, it can be. As your baby grows, your uterus expands upward and your organs shift to make room. Your diaphragm can be pushed up by as much as four centimetres, and your ribcage widens to compensate. This can create a feeling of pressure, tightness or discomfort in the upper chest, particularly in the second and third trimester.

What could be causing it?

There are a few specific things that commonly cause chest tightness in pregnancy.

Rib slippage is one possibility, particularly if the tightness or discomfort is worse when you breathe in. This can happen during pregnancy and outside of pregnancy too. If rib slippage is the cause, a simple technique can sometimes help. Try leaning forward and breathing out, then leaning back and breathing in. This can help to clear the sensation. It is not always possible to pinpoint the exact cause, but this is a recognised and relatively common experience.

Costochondritis is another possibility. This is inflammation of the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone, and it is more common during pregnancy than many people realise. It can feel like a sharp or aching chest pain, and is often worse when lying down or when you are resting rather than moving around.

Heartburn and acid reflux are also extremely common in pregnancy and can cause a burning sensation in the chest that is easily mistaken for something more serious. If your tightness comes on after eating or when you lie down, this could be worth considering.

When should I seek help?

Chest tightness that is mild, comes and goes, and seems linked to movement or breathing is usually nothing to worry about. However, chest symptoms should always be taken seriously, particularly during pregnancy.

Seek immediate help by calling 999 if you experience sudden chest pain or discomfort that does not go away, pain that spreads to your arm, neck, jaw, stomach or back, or if you feel sweaty, feel sick, feel lightheaded or are short of breath alongside the chest tightness. These can be signs of a heart attack and need immediate treatment.

Speak to your GP if your chest pain comes and goes, if it went away quickly but you are still concerned, or if you are worried about it at all. It is always better to get checked and be reassured than to sit with something that is on your mind.

You can read more on the NHS guidance on chest pain here: nhs.uk/symptoms/chest-pain

Got a question of your own?

Every week our midwives answer the questions mums are actually asking.Got a question of your own? Our midwives are available right inside the Dearbump app, ready to answer it directly.