Breast Pain (Mastalgia)
What Is Breast Pain?
Breast pain, also known as mastalgia, is a common symptom that affects many women at some point in their lives. While it can be worrying, in most cases it is benign and not linked to breast cancer. The pain may be cyclical, related to hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle, or non-cyclical, caused by other breast or chest wall factors.
Types and Causes of Breast Pain
1. Cyclical Mastalgia:
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Related to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle.
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Usually affects both breasts, often before menstruation.
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Common in women aged 20–45 and may resolve naturally.
2. Non-Cyclical Mastalgia:
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Unrelated to the menstrual cycle.
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May affect one breast and is often localised.
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Causes include benign breast cysts, trauma, surgery, infection, or chest wall pain.
3. Extramammary Pain (Outside the Breast):
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Originates from muscles, ribs, or nerves of the chest wall but can feel like breast pain.
Symptoms and When to Seek Advice
Breast pain can range from mild tenderness to sharp or burning discomfort.
Seek medical assessment if:
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Pain is persistent, severe, or localised to one area.
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There is an associated lump, swelling, or nipple discharge.
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The pain interferes with daily activities or sleep.
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Pain occurs after menopause or worsens over time.
Although breast cancer is rarely painful, evaluation ensures reassurance and early detection if required.
Diagnosis and Assessment
At Breast & Wellness, all patients are assessed through a structured process:
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Comprehensive breast examination
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Breast imaging: ultrasound and/or mammogram, depending on age and symptoms
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Hormonal assessment or medication review, if indicated
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Targeted management plan based on findings
In most cases, imaging confirms that the pain is not due to a serious condition, providing reassurance and guidance for symptom relief.
Treatment and Management
Treatment focuses on relieving discomfort and addressing underlying causes:
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Supportive bras: Wearing a well-fitted bra provides stability and reduces strain.
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Lifestyle measures: Reduce caffeine, nicotine, and high-fat foods.
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Topical anti-inflammatory gels or simple analgesia for pain relief.
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Evening primrose oil or vitamin E supplements may help in hormonal pain.
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Drainage or treatment if pain is due to a cyst or infection.
Patient education, reassurance, and proper support are key to managing mastalgia effectively.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
Most cases of breast pain improve over time with conservative management.
Regular follow-up ensures resolution and early recognition if new symptoms develop.
Persistent or complex pain can be managed through multidisciplinary input, including physiotherapy and pain specialists if required.
Key Points
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Breast pain is common and usually not a sign of cancer.
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Can be cyclical or non-cyclical, often due to hormonal or benign causes.
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Imaging and clinical assessment help rule out serious conditions.
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Managed with supportive measures, pain relief, and reassurance.
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Excellent prognosis with proper evaluation and care.