Breast pain (mastalgia) is very common. Up to 70 percent of women will experience breast pain at some time in their lives. It can be cyclic (associated with the menstrual cycle), or non-cyclic (not related to your period). Breast pain alone is rarely a sign of breast cancer.
Breast pain can be due to:
Evaluation can include:
Follow-up will be determined by you and your provider depending on your particular situation.
Often the pain will spontaneously resolve with time, and no treatment is needed.
Other options for relief include:
Certain dietary changes or supplements have brought relief to some women, but have not been proven in clinical trials:
If you have questions about this topic, or would like more information, please talk with your health-care provider.
Virginia Mason's Breast Clinic, with locations in Seattle and Federal Way, is easily reached toll-free at (877) 433-9813. We make it a priority to answer your call promptly and to schedule you for the most appropriate exam.