Common Causes of Breast Pain (And When to See a Doctor)
Breast pain, or mastalgia, is a common concern affecting nearly 70% of women at some point in their lives, according to the National Library of Medicine. While it can be alarming, most breast pain isn’t linked to cancer. Still, it’s important to understand what’s normal, what might require further evaluation, and how to manage the discomfort effectively.
At Serenity Breast Health and Wellness, we’re here to help you make sense of your symptoms—so you can feel confident in your care and get support when you need it most.
Types of Breast Pain
Before exploring the causes, it’s helpful to understand the two main types of breast pain:
Cyclic Breast Pain
Related to hormonal changes in your menstrual cycle. Usually affects both breasts, often described as dull, heavy, or aching.Non-Cyclic Breast Pain
Not tied to the menstrual cycle. May occur in one breast or one specific area. Can feel sharp, burning, or constant.
Common Causes of Breast Pain
Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormonal changes are the most frequent cause of breast pain, especially in people under 50. Estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall throughout the menstrual cycle, which can lead to tenderness, swelling, or aching in the breasts.
Hormonal breast pain typically improves after menstruation.
Fibrocystic Breast Changes
Fibrocystic changes make breast tissue feel lumpy or rope-like and may cause discomfort, especially before your period. These changes are benign (non-cancerous) and common—but can still be painful or worrisome.
If breast texture feels different or new lumps develop, it’s worth discussing with a physician.
Breast Cysts
Fluid-filled sacs in the breast can cause sharp or localized pain. Cysts may feel like soft or firm lumps and often change in size depending on hormonal shifts.
Cysts are usually benign, but painful ones may require draining or monitoring.
Injury or Trauma
A blow to the chest or repetitive strain (like from exercise or heavy lifting) can cause lingering soreness or bruising in the breast tissue. While this usually resolves with time, persistent pain should be evaluated.
Infections or Mastitis
Breast infections, often caused by bacteria entering through cracked skin or milk ducts, can lead to pain, redness, warmth, and swelling. Mastitis is more common during breastfeeding but can happen at other times as well.
Signs of infection should always be checked by a physician.
Poorly Fitting Bras or Clothing
Wearing a bra that lacks support or fits incorrectly can strain breast tissue and chest muscles, leading to soreness over time. A professional bra fitting may help alleviate pain linked to daily wear.
Medications or Medical Conditions
Certain medications—such as hormonal therapies, birth control pills, or antidepressants—may contribute to breast tenderness. Additionally, conditions affecting the chest wall (like costochondritis) can mimic breast pain.
If you’re unsure whether a medication or condition is contributing to your pain, your doctor can help investigate.
When to See a Doctor
While most breast pain is benign, it’s important to listen to your body and seek medical guidance if you experience:
New or unexplained pain lasting more than a few weeks
Pain localized in one spot
Pain that worsens over time
Accompanying symptoms like lumps, redness, nipple discharge, or skin changes
Pain that disrupts daily activities or sleep
You know your body best. If something feels different—or if you’re just unsure—it’s worth having it evaluated.
How Serenity Can Help
At Serenity Breast Health and Wellness, we take breast pain seriously. Dr. Jilma Patrick, a board-certified breast surgeon, partners with patients to:
Evaluate your symptoms and perform a detailed clinical exam
Review any imaging or diagnostic tests
Identify the underlying cause of your breast pain
Offer personalized guidance, monitoring, or treatment as needed
Whether you’re experiencing hormonal tenderness, cysts, or something that doesn’t feel quite right, we’re here to provide compassionate, evidence-based care.
Peace of Mind Starts Here
You don’t have to wait for answers—or suffer in silence. If breast pain is interfering with your comfort or confidence, reach out. We’re here to listen, evaluate, and help you find clarity and relief.
Request an appointment with Dr. Patrick at Serenity Breast Health and Wellness and take the next step toward understanding your breast health with trusted support by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No, most breast pain is not caused by cancer. It’s often related to hormonal changes, cysts, or benign conditions. However, persistent or unusual pain should still be evaluated by a doctor.
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Normal breast pain—especially cyclic pain—often feels dull, heavy, or achy and typically affects both breasts. It usually occurs before your period and improves afterward.
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You should contact a doctor if your breast pain is new, persistent, localized to one area, worsens over time, or is accompanied by symptoms like a lump, nipple discharge, or skin changes.
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Yes. Many people experience breast pain without any detectable lump. While this is often benign, it’s still important to track your symptoms and talk to a specialist if they persist.
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Sharp, non-cyclic pain in one breast may be caused by a cyst, injury, or inflammation. It’s less likely to be hormonal and should be assessed by a healthcare provider if it doesn’t improve.
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Yes. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone during your menstrual cycle are a common cause of breast tenderness, especially in younger individuals.
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Yes. An ill-fitting bra that lacks proper support can strain your breast tissue and chest muscles, leading to daily discomfort or pain.
