Breast pain — medically known as mastalgia — is one of the most common reasons women seek breast health evaluation. While often non-cancerous, it can cause worry, discomfort, and disruption to daily life. At Kailash Hospital, Noida, we offer expert evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and individualized treatment plans to help you manage breast pain effectively.

What Is Breast Pain (Mastalgia)?

Breast pain refers to discomfort, soreness, or tenderness in one or both breasts. It can range from mild irritation to severe aching that interferes with everyday activities.

There are two main types of breast pain:

Cyclical Mastalgia: Related to menstrual cycle changes; common in premenopausal women.

Non-cyclical Mastalgia: Not linked to periods — may stem from injury, infection, or other causes.

Common Symptoms of Breast Pain

Whether mild or intense, breast pain may present with:

🔹 Localized Tenderness or Ache

Pain confined to a specific breast area.

🔹 Generalized Breast Discomfort

Diffuse soreness across the breast tissue.

🔹 Pain That Varies with Hormonal Changes

Often worse before periods or during pregnancy.

🔹 Pain With Lumps or Swelling

Requires prompt evaluation.

🔹 Sharp or Burning Sensations

May indicate nerve involvement or skin conditions.

What Causes Breast Pain?

Breast pain can result from various factors:

Hormonal Fluctuations

Estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause, leading to breast tenderness.

Fibrocystic Changes

Benign breast tissue changes that cause lumps and discomfort.

Breast Cysts

Fluid-filled sacs can produce pain when enlarged.

Injury or Trauma

Accidental blows or strenuous exercise can lead to localized pain.

Infections (Mastitis)

Common during breastfeeding; accompanied by redness, warmth, and sometimes fever.

Large Breast Size

May strain muscles and ligaments, causing pain in breast, back, or shoulders.

Medication Side Effects

Some hormonal medications, including contraceptives or hormone replacement, may contribute to breast tenderness.

Musculoskeletal Pain

Strain of chest wall muscles may be mistaken for breast pain.

Important Note: Breast pain is rarely a sign of breast cancer, but persistent, localized pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical care if you experience:
✔ Breast pain that doesn’t go away after 2–3 weeks
✔ New lumps or changes in breast shape
✔ Unusual nipple discharge
✔ Pain accompanied by redness, warmth, or fever
✔ Pain affecting daily activities

At Kailash Hospital, Noida, our specialists recommend early evaluation to rule out serious causes and start appropriate care promptly.

How Is Breast Pain Diagnosed?

A comprehensive breast pain evaluation may include:

🩺 Clinical Breast Examination

Physical evaluation by a breast specialist.

📍 Imaging Tests
Ultrasound — ideal for younger women and cyst evaluation.
Mammography — recommended for women over 40 or with risk factors.

📋 Hormonal & Blood Tests

To assess hormonal imbalances or underlying systemic issues.

🧬 Biopsy (If Needed)

To examine suspicious areas in detail.

Treatment Options for Breast Pain

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms.

Wear a supportive bra
Apply warm compresses
Reduce caffeine and high-fat foods
Manage stress

Medications