What is breast pain (mastalgia)?

Breast pain, also called mastalgia, is a common condition that can affect one or both breasts. It may feel like soreness, heaviness, or sharp discomfort. While it can be concerning, breast pain is rarely linked to serious conditions like cancer.

There are two main types. Cyclical breast pain is tied to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, while noncyclical pain is not related to hormones and may come from the breast or nearby areas.

Possible causes include:

• Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle
• Sensitivity to estrogen or progesterone
• Stress-related hormone shifts
• Injury or strain to the chest muscles
• Breast cysts or other benign conditions
• Pain from the neck, ribs, or joints that travels to the breast

Symptoms

Breast pain can feel different depending on the cause. Understanding the pattern of your symptoms can help guide care.

Common symptoms include:

• Tenderness or aching in the breast
• A feeling of fullness or heaviness
• Sharp or burning pain in one area
• Discomfort that spreads to the underarm
• Pain that worsens before a menstrual period
• Ongoing pain in one specific spot

How is it diagnosed?

Your provider will start by asking about your symptoms and when they occur. Tracking your pain over time can help determine if it follows a hormonal pattern.

A physical exam is usually the first step. Imaging tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, may be recommended to rule out other conditions. If something unusual is found, additional testing, such as a biopsy, may be needed.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on the type of breast pain and its cause. Many cases improve with simple changes.

Conservative options may include:

• Reducing caffeine intake
• Wearing a supportive bra
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
• Trying dietary changes, such as lowering fat intake
• Using warm or cold compresses

Additional treatments may include:

• Vitamin supplements in some cases
• Hormonal therapies when symptoms are severe
• Draining fluid from cysts, if present
• Treating muscle or joint-related pain

Most people find relief once the underlying cause is identified and managed.