Pregnant and Swollen Lymph Nodes in Both Armpits

[Lw56992]

Hi everyone,

I suffer from severe health anxiety - I feel that’s probably important to share first. I apologise for the length of this rant but I haven’t slept properly for almost a week because I’m so worried.

My left armpit has been swollen for about a month. It has also been tender to the touch; I could feel that it was a little painful when I put on deodorant in the morning, for example. I went to my GP who felt it and said I had quite a few swollen lymph nodes there. I have had a couple of bad colds in Oct and just before Christmas, but my lymph nodes are STILL swollen so I’m not sure that could be the reason for it. Anyway, the GP googled the location of axiliary lymph nodes which didn’t fill me with confidence, and then told me to wait another four weeks to see if they disappear.

That night, I noticed a small lump in my right armpit. Over the last few days, this armpit has also begun to swell. Therefore, I’ve made an appointment to go back to the GP tomorrow morning.

I’m so so so worried that they’re going to refer me for cancer checks and I can’t cope with the anxiety. I know this isn’t good for my pregnancy (I’m 25 weeks) but can’t control myself. I’ve convinced myself that I’ll die before my baby knows who I am and that my partner is going to have to plan my funeral.

Any similar experiences from anyone else?

Thank you so much in advance x

I haven't got a similar experience but want to say well done for taking control and making another appointment rather than letting your anxiety stop you. No one can say what the appointment will bring but at least you will know you have been examined and either your mind put at rest which will make you feel great or further investigation needed. If you hadn't made the appointment you would have spent hours and hours worrying about what it was and imagining the worst. Hope it goes well tomorrow

Go next to your GP and insist on a referral to the breast clinic. You should then be seen within 2 weeks. Do not take no for an answer.

It's likely to be nothing serious but you must get this checked properly. Do not be fobbed off with 'it's just hormones' or 'it's just a virus'.

I hope this gp either refers you or is reassuring. Hopefully the former

However I got this when pregnant and it is still there (9years on). It is not as inflamed these days so day to day doesn’t bother me but there is still a pea sized lump.

So it absolutely can be hormonal. But i had to see several different doctors until I stopped worrying about it. Being pregnant
Will naturally increase the worry☹️.

Let us know how you get on