Women between the ages of 30 and 50 years old experience the highest incidence of breast pain. This pain may vary from mild to severe, described as a tender or burning sensation. Understanding when to worry about breast pain and when it is a normal part of life is crucial for peace of mind and proactive breast health management.
At Andrew Lee Breast Clinic, we aim to provide women with comprehensive information on the various breast pain causes and the steps they can take to ensure optimal breast health today.
Who Commonly Experiences Breast Pain
Breast pain or mastalgia affects women of all ages and at different stages of life. For instance, cyclic breast pain, which is linked to the menstrual cycle, is common in younger women. Non-cyclic breast pain, which is not related to the menstrual cycle, can occur in older women and may be linked to issues such as breast cysts or trauma.
Identifying who is most likely to experience breast pain helps in understanding the context of the discomfort. Hormonal fluctuations related to menstruation, pregnancy and menopause are frequent breast pain causes.
Menstruation: Hormonal changes can cause breast tissue to become swollen and tender, leading to temporary discomfort.
Pregnancy: Fluctuating hormone levels during pregnancy can cause breast pain, tenderness and changes in nipple sensation.
Breastfeeding: Some women experience pain due to milk production or latching difficulties.
What Causes Breast Pain
Hormonal changes are the most common cause, often leading to cyclical breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle.
Other causes of breast pain include
- Breast cysts: Fluid-filled sacs within the breast that can be tender to touch.
- Infections (mastitis): Often occurring during breastfeeding, causing redness, swelling and pain.
- Injuries: Trauma to the breast tissue can cause temporary pain and swelling.
- Medications: Certain drugs, including some hormonal treatments, can lead to breast pain.
- Poorly fitting bras: Wearing bras that do not provide adequate support can strain the breast tissue.
When To Worry About Breast Pain
Recognising the difference between normal and concerning breast pain maintains breast health and reduces distress. Most breast pain is benign and related to hormonal changes or other non-cancerous conditions.
Pain not linked to the menstrual cycle warrants closer attention. If you find yourself asking, “why does my breast hurt when I press it?” it’s important to consider the context and accompanying symptoms.
Persistent breast pain accompanied by other symptoms should prompt further evaluation.
- Localised Pain: Pain in one specific area does not fluctuate with your cycle.
- Breast Lump Pain: If you find a new lump or change in the texture of your breast, that is painful.
- Nipple Discharge: Discharge from the nipple if it is bloody or occurs without squeezing.
- Skin Changes: Redness, dimpling, puckering or any other noticeable change in the skin of the breast.
- Size or Shape Changes: Unexplained changes in the size or shape of your breast.
How to Check Breast Cancer
Regular self-examinations are crucial for detecting unusual changes in the breasts.
Follow these steps to conduct a breast self-exam:
1. Visual Inspection: Stand in front of a mirror with your shoulders straight and your arms on your hips. Look for changes in your breasts' shape, size or symmetry. Check for dimpling, puckering or changes in the skin texture.
2. Manual Inspection: Raise one arm and use the opposite hand to examine your breast. Use a firm, smooth touch with the first few fingers, keeping them flat and together. Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side, and from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen.
3. Check for Lumps: Use a circular motion to feel for lumps or thickened areas. Pay attention to areas that feel different from the rest of your breast tissue, especially if they cause breast lump pain.
4. Nipple Examination: Gently squeeze each nipple and check for discharge or changes in appearance.
In addition to self-exams, regular clinical breast exams and mammograms are essential for thorough screening and early diagnosis.
At Andrew Lee Breast Clinic, we offer private consultations and screening procedures to help women stay proactive about their breast health. Our compassionate and experienced team, led by Dr Andrew Lee, is dedicated to providing personalised care and addressing concerns about breast pain or changes.
Private and Compassionate Care For Optimal Breast Health
Experiencing breast pain can be unsettling, and it’s natural to have questions. At the Andrew Lee Breast Clinic, we understand your concerns and provide a supportive environment where patients can voice discomfort and receive dedicated guidance.
Dr Andrew Lee and our team provide comprehensive breast care, from education and early detection to diagnosis and treatment. Our full-spectrum screening services and personalised consultations are tailored to your needs, preferences and overall health.
Stay proactive about your breast health and address persistent breast pain today.
Schedule a consultation with Dr Andrew Lee.
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