Breast Pain Isn’t Normal But It’s Usually Not Cancer
Breast pain is common, but living with fear doesn’t have to be. We help you understand what’s causing the pain and treat it early with care, not panic.
Breast pain (also called mastalgia ) is one of the most common breast concerns among women.
It can feel like :
Heaviness
Sharp pain
Burning
Pulling
Tenderness
Most importantly: breast pain alone is rarely a sign of cancer.
But understanding why it’s happening helps you get the right care and peace of mind. Breast pain is common, but living with fear doesn’t have to be. We help you understand what’s causing the pain and treat it early with care, not panic.
Types of Breast Pain
Cyclic Breast Pain
Pain that follows your menstrual cycle.
- Feels heavy, full, or tender
- Usually affects both breasts
- Most common in younger women
- Often linked to hormonal changes
Non-Cyclic Breast Pain
Pain that does not follow your cycle.
- Sharp, burning, or localized
- Often affects one breast
- May come from cysts, fibroadenomas, infections, or breast tissue changes
- Often linked to hormonal changes
Chest Wall / Muscular Pain
Pain that feels like breast pain – but isn’t from the breast.
- Comes from the muscles or ribs
- Pain increases with movement or pressure
- Common in active women or after exercise
Common Causes of Breast Pain
Breast pain can happen for many reasons – most of them benign (non-cancerous). Understanding the root cause helps us treat it quickly and accurately.
Breast Cysts
Fluid-filled sacs inside the breast that can cause sharp, localized pain – especially before periods.
Fibroadenoma
A benign (non-cancerous) breast lump that can be tender or painful when growing or pressed.
Poor Bra Support
Wrong-sized bras can strain breast tissue and chest wall muscles.
Vitamin D Deficiency
A surprisingly common cause of persistent breast pain in women of all ages.
Chest Wall or Muscle Strain
Pain from the ribs or muscles can feel like it’s coming from the breast.
Hormonal Changes
Fluctuations before periods, during ovulation, or menopause can make the breasts feel heavy, tender, or sore.
Breastfeeding-Related Pain
Engorgement, blocked ducts, improper latch, or nipple cracks can cause significant discomfort.
Breast Infection / Abscess
Redness, swelling, warmth, or throbbing pain – often seen in breastfeeding women but can occur in others too.
When Should You See a Doctor?
A quick breast evaluation removes doubt – and brings clarity.
You should get your breast pain evaluated if you notice any of these:
Pain lasting longer than 2 weeks
Pain in one specific area
Pain with a lump
Pain with redness, warmth, or swelling
Pain interfering with daily activities
Pain with nipple discharge
Pain with redness, warmth, or swelling
Pain interfering with daily activities
Pain with nipple discharge
Pain lasting longer than 2 weeks
Pain in one specific area
Pain with a lump
Frequently Asked Questions ?
Most breast pain is not related to cancer. However, if pain is persistent or accompanied by a lump or discharge, evaluation is recommended.
Your doctor will guide you. Mammography may be advised based on age, symptoms, and risk factors.
Yes. Many women experience cyclical pain due to hormonal fluctuations during their menstrual cycle.
Vitamin D deficiency is a common but often overlooked cause.
Yes – blocked ducts, engorgement, or mastitis can cause significant pain and need proper guidance.
Still worried about your breast pain?
Let our breast expert help you find the cause – and the relief.
Still worried about your breast pain?
Let our breast expert help you find the cause – and the relief.
Breast Conditions
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Sector 51, Gurgaon