Mastalgia, a real pain

March 27th, 2008 in Common Problems, F.A.Q

When I was a child, the women who gathered in my mother’s kitchen quaffing numerous cups of tea and exchanging complaints about the men, often referred to an annoying person as ‘ a real pain in the left tit‘. This interesting turn of phrase may well have been based on real physical experience. Breast pain, called mastalgia, is a common complaint. Almost 70% of women experience breast pain at some point in their lives.

Breast pain may occur in one or both breasts or in the underarm (axilla) region of the body. Although breast pain is not normally associated with breast cancer, if you experience any breast abnormalities, including breast pain, please consult your physician.

Cyclical Pain

During each menstrual cycle, hormones make your milk glands and ducts enlarge, and breast tissue swells. This often results in water retention. Your breasts feel swollen, painful, tender, or lumpy a few days before menstruation. This discomfort ends at menopause. (Unless you are taking HRT)

Non-Cyclical Pain

Women who experience non-cyclical breast pain often experience pain in one specific area of the breast(s). If you have suffered an injury or trauma to the breast, or if you have had a breast biopsy, you may experience non-cyclical pain.

This condition may occur in both pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women and usually subsides after one to two years. Non-cyclical pain is most common in women between 40 and 50 years of age.

Costochondritis

Costochondritis is a type of arthritic pain which occurs in the middle of the chest where the ribs and the breast bone connect. This condition can feel as if it’s coming from the breast, but it’s just the result of poor posture and aging.

Women who experience costochondritis usually describe it as a burning sensation in the breast.

Remember, non-cyclical breast pain does not indicate breast cancer. You should always discuss breast changes, including any pain, with your health provider.