Breast Pain
Breast pain is very common in women of all ages. By itself, breast pain is unlikely to be a symptom of cancer.
Many women experience breast pain as part of their normal menstrual cycle (periods). This is called cyclical breast pain.
Lasting pain in the breast that’s not related to periods is known as non-cyclical breast pain.
Sometimes pain that feels as though it's in the breast is coming from somewhere else, such as a pulled muscle in the chest. This is known as chest wall pain.
Cyclical breast pain
Dull aching heavy pain linked to periods. Usually begins 2 weeks to a few days before the start of the period and ends once the period is over. It is linked to the rise in oestrogen and progesterone just before the period.
- The pain can be mild to severe.
- The pain usually affects both breasts but can affect just one; it may also be felt in the arm pit, arm and shoulders.
- Breast pain is commonly felt by pregnant women in their first trimester when there is a significant increase in hormone levels.
- Hormonal changes during the menopause can also cause breast pain, usually ending after the menopause is over.
- Breast pain can also be associated with starting to take or changing contraception that contains hormones.
Non-cyclical breast pain
Pain unrelated to the menstrual cycle
- In many women it is likely to occur after the menopause
- This can be a sore, sharp, burning or stabbing pain
- May cause tightness
- May be in one or both breasts
- Continuous or may come and go
- This could be due to injuries
Treating breast pain
- Wear a well-fitted, supportive bra
- Limit the intake of caffeine
- Avoid smoking
- Get regular exercise
- When unmanageable, take paracetamol or ibuprofen
- If the pain started after taking the contraceptive pill, changing to a different pill may help. If the pain continues, you may want to try a non-hormone method of contraception such as condoms, a non-hormonal coil or a cap. If the pain started after hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and continues, speak to your family doctor.