Exercise and Your Breasts

Continued...

See a physician immediately if there is any question of needing stitches (sutures should be in place within 12 hours). If you have a deep wound, you may need to have the blood removed by aspiration, and your physician may prescribe antibiotics to prevent abcess formation.

This type of injury is very painful. You may need analgesics and supportive dressings or bras for several days. To decrease the pain and swelling from a bruise, use ice packs tucked in a supportive bra for 10 to 15 minutes every few hours over the next few days. You might also find it more comfortable to sleep wearing a support bra or compressive wrap.

Don't return to action until you are almost pain free and there is no sign of infection. If you have had stitches, wait until they are removed before you resume exercise. Excessive motion of the breast will delay healing and lead to larger scar formation.

Contrary to some beliefs in both the medical and lay community there is no relationship between injuries and breast cancer. In fact, retrospective surveys have found that collegiate women athletes have a lower incidence of breast cancer and cancers of the reproductive system regardless of injury than non-athletic women.

For your own peace of mind, every woman should know how to do breast self-examination and perform it regularly just after her period ends.

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About the authors: Carol L. Otis, M.D., is Chief Medical Advisor to the Sanex WTA and UCLA student health physician. Roger Goldingay is a former professional soccer player. They are married and the co-authors of The Athletic Woman's Survival Guide.

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Table of Contents

Foreword: Billie Jean King

Comments by Barb Harris
Editor in Chief,
Shape Magazine

General Health
Nutrition
Exercise
Common Medical Problems
Dental Health
Emergency!
Infectious Disease
Sexual Health
Emotional Well-Being
Eating Disorders
Alcohol & Other Drugs
Environmental Health
Prevention