Breast pain can be worrisome, but its not usually a cause for concern.

Hormones play a big role in the development of breast tissue and the pain that can develop there. This is especially true in women, as hormone fluctuations cause ducts and glands in the breasts to grow and shrink in cycles.

This article will explore the causes of breast pain, as well as when to contact a doctor and how theyll diagnose your symptoms.

While anyone can experience breast pain, its more common in people with female sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These hormones play a big role in the fluctuation of breast tissue structure and size.

During significant hormonal shifts like pregnancy and while breastfeeding, breast pain or tenderness is actually expected.

Most types of breast pain fit into two categories: cyclic and noncyclic breast pain.

Cyclic breast pain is linked to your menstrual cycle and is believed to be caused in part by hormone changes. Pain can develop at different points in this cycle. But its most common at the start of the cycle or during ovulation.

Cyclic breast pain is barely noticeable for some people and excruciating for others. Its not uncommon for this pain to be felt in just one breast or the other. It is often a radiating pain that begins near the armpit.

Noncyclic breast pain can occur at any time and is not linked to your menstrual cycle. This type of pain is pretty uncommon. It can be caused by all kinds of things, like trauma, an injury to the breast tissue, or even arthritic pain. The type of pain can vary, but its usually a continuous pain that is felt in one specific area of the breast. It can be sharp, dull, or radiating.

Cyclic and noncyclic causes of breast pain include things like:

Most causes of breast pain will go away on their own with time, medications, or lifestyle changes. However, if youre experiencing any of the following symptoms, schedule an appointment with a doctor for an evaluation and diagnosis:

Your doctor will begin an examination for breast pain by asking you about your personal and family medical history. Theyll want to know which of your relatives if any have had breast cancer and at what age.

Genetic testing using your blood or saliva could provide clues about your cancer risk. But there are other considerations in your family history, too.

Your doctor may suggest a one-time or regular mammogram to examine your breast tissue more closely. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all women between the ages of 50 and 74 receive a mammogram at least once every 2 years. Get one more often if you have an increased risk of breast cancer.

Other tools that can help identify tissue changes, breast cancer, or other conditions may include:

Biopsies are the tool of choice when it comes to diagnosing breast lumps, which are often associated with a higher risk of cancer.

A mammogram is usually the go-to tool when it comes to diagnosing breast pain and other issues, but ultrasound imaging is sometimes more accurate in people under 30 years old. Mammograms are highly accurate at detecting cancer, though, especially in older adults.

Treatment of your breast pain depends on the cause. Breast cancer treatment is complex and depends on the cancer type and stage.

Most breast pain, however, can be addressed with medications or lifestyle changes. Some things that you can do to relieve breast pain:

Breast pain is common and usually not serious. Most women will experience breast pain at some point in their lives, but only a few will be diagnosed with a serious problem like cancer.

If you have concerns about your breast pain, talk with a doctor about your symptoms. Be sure to follow their recommendations for regular screenings.

Discussing your risk factors including family and genetic history can help you and your doctor make the best decisions regarding your breast health.

Excerpt from:
When to Worry About Breast Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment - Healthline

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