What causes breast pain?

Pain that follows a monthly pattern may relate to premenstrual hormone shifts. Tenderness can affect both breasts and settle after the period begins. Fibrocystic breast changes can make breast tissue feel lumpy, full, or sore, often with symptoms that vary during the cycle.

During breastfeeding, a blocked milk duct may cause a tender, localised area. Mastitis can add warmth, redness, swelling, and feeling unwell. A collection of infection called an abscess may cause a painful lump and needs clinical assessment. Breast pain alone has many possible explanations, so its location, timing, and accompanying changes help guide evaluation.

Keep a brief record of when the pain starts, whether it tracks your cycle, and whether it affects one or both breasts. A well-fitting supportive bra, gentle comfort measures, and avoiding pressure on the area may help. If you are breastfeeding, feeding or expressing regularly and checking for a persistent tender spot can be useful. Do not squeeze a lump or delay assessment if symptoms are worsening.

A clinician can examine the breast and decide whether imaging or other tests are appropriate. Treatment depends on the cause, such as addressing inflammation or arranging drainage when an abscess is present.

Arrange prompt medical advice for a new persistent lump, redness or warmth, nipple discharge that is bloody or clear, a change in nipple position, or pain that remains in one area. Seek urgent care if breast symptoms are accompanied by fever, rapidly increasing redness, severe swelling, or feeling faint or very unwell.

Could the timing and location suggest a hormonal cause? Could breastfeeding-related inflammation or a blocked duct explain this pain? What breast changes should I monitor, and do I need an examination or imaging?