Breast Pain (Mastodynia / Mastalgia) in Women | CMC Hospital Dubai

Breast Pain (also known as Mastodynia or Mastalgia) in Women 

For Breast Pain in Men, please see Gynaecomastia  

Breast pain is a common condition and is not usually a sign of breast cancer. It may be caused by cyclical hormonal changes, or other things such as medications, overactivity or even stress. If you have breast pain that lasts longer than two weeks or persists through your cycle, please see your Healthcare provider, especially if you have another symptom, such a lump, skin changes or fluid leaking from your nipple without explanation. 

What is Breast Pain? 

Breast pain is the symptom of discomfort in one or both breasts. The sensation varies from person to person, but is more common in women and can interfere with normal activities of daily living when severe. It tends to be more common in younger women who have not gone through the menopause, but it can occur at any age. About 70% of women will experience breast pain at some point in their life and it is often present in only one breast. 

What are the different types of Breast Pain? 

Cyclical breast pain tends to occur about a week before your period and usually eases once your period starts. It may be painful in one or both breasts and usually stops after the menopause. It is what we call self-limiting – this means that the pain tends to go away by itself.  

Non-cyclical breast pain does not have a predictable pattern and is usually constant, although it can come and go. It usually affects one specific area of one breast and is most commonly related to an injury or a non-cancer related breast condition. 

What are the symptoms of Breast Pain? 

Cyclical breast pain causes your breast tissue to feel swollen, heavy and sore. Sometimes with a dull ache or electricity-like shooting pains. 

Non-cyclical breast pain usually presents with a pain in a specific area – it is often possible to put one finger on the area where it hurts. It may be a sharper, more acute pain or can be felt as a burning or stabbing pain. 

What causes Breast Pain? 

Cyclical breast pain is usually triggered by normal variations of your natural menstrual cycle. 

Non-cyclical breast pain may be caused by hormone medications, breast infections, pregnancy, benign (non-cancerous) breast lumps such as cysts, inflammation in the breast tissue, breast feeding, previous radiation treatment, trauma including overactivity, and scars. There is a possibility that stress may cause breast pain, but the pathway of how this works is poorly understood at present. 

What about Breast Pain and Breast Cancer? 

Breast pain is not usually a symptom of breast cancer. It is worth seeing your Healthcare Provider if your breast pain has persisted beyond 2 weeks or persists after your period, or if you think you might be a higher risk for breast cancer, such as due to family history. If you have any other symptoms, such as a breast lump, nipple discharge or changes in the skin of the breast, please be sure to see your Healthcare Provider even if the pain goes away. 

How is Breast Pain diagnosed? 

Breast pain is diagnosed by asking you questions about the pain (taking a history) and performing a clinical examination. Breast imaging with mammography or breast ultrasound can sometimes help to identify the cause of the pain or rule out anything of concern. Your Healthcare Provider will advise you on the benefits and downsides of this based on your individualised situation. 

What is the Treatment for Breast Pain? 

As most breast pain goes away by itself, the focus is on treating the acute pain with simple painkillers if needed. A soft, supportive bra with no wire can provide support and may help to relieve the pain, especially of worn at night. Applying a warm pack to the skin, taking care that it is not too hot to protect the skin, may help, as may rubbing in an anti-inflammatory cream. Some women find stress-relieving activities can help to reduce the breast pain. Studies looking at Evening Primrose Oil and/or Vitamin D show promising results, although this does not work for everyone. 

Please note that there is no one “quick fix” for breast pain and the recommendations above are not well-studied, so may not provide an improvement in symptoms for everyone. If you are unsure, please talk to your Healthcare Provider to find out what is most suitable for you. 

How long will my Breast Pain last? 

Most breast pain is occasional and will go away by itself. If your pain is persistent or you have other worries, please see you Healthcare Provider for further review. 

Is it possible to prevent Breast Pain? 

Breast pain is most commonly linked to our normal hormonal cycle but lifestyle changes may demonstrate an improvement. Aim to follow a healthy nutritional plan and incorporate movement into your daily activities. You may find that reducing caffeine, or stopping smoking may also help. 

What to do if your Breast Pain persists or you remain worried? 

If you have breast pain that lasts longer than two weeks or persists through your cycle, please see your Healthcare provider, especially if you have another symptom, such a lump, skin changes or fluid leaking from your nipple without explanation.