And most of the time, they’re right.
Cyclical breast painrefers to breast pain that comes and goes with amenstrual cycle.
While it’s very common, the exact cause is unknown.
Verywell / Hilary Allison
This article reviews what you should know about cyclical breast pain, including some of its specific symptoms.
Verywell / Hilary Allison
What Are the Symptoms of Menstrual Breast Pain?
Cyclical breast pain is one of two types of breast pain, commonly referred to asmastalgia.
The other pop in is noncyclic breast pain.
These feelings may intensify just before menstruation and then gradually taper off during and after a period.
For some women, breast pain lasts throughout their cycle and varies in intensity.
Women may have pain in one breast or both.
But many women feel pain that is much worse in one breast over the other.
And as women get older, the pain occurs less regularly and stops atmenopause.
If so, you may notice the formation of small bumps on one or both breasts during your period.
What Causes Menstrual Breast Pain?
Your levels ofestrogenandprogesteronenormally fluctuate during your menstrual cycle.
These important hormones prepare your breasts andreproductive systemfor potential pregnancy.
The tissues in your breasts respond to these hormones and are believed to be responsible for cyclical breast pain.
How Is Menstrual Breast Pain Diagnosed?
Breast pain can significantly affect your quality of life.
Having a family history of breast cancer increases the risk.
How Is Menstrual Breast Pain Treated?
The first step in treating your cyclical breast pain is to acknowledge that it’s real and disruptive toyou.
Some women fear they are being oversensitive by complaining about something that other women consider normal.
Discuss your options with your trusted healthcare provider.
You may find relief in some unexpected places.
You may notice the pain is particularly worse when exercising or going down stairs.
Asupport bramayreduce the bounce and sway of breast tissue during your menstrual period and lessen breast pain.
Or, you may find more comfort in a light camisole.
Either way, you’ll need to check that your bra is the correct size.
If you aren’t sure, consider getting a professional bra fitting.
A 2018 double-blinded randomized controlled study looked at the ability of chamomile drops to improve cyclical breast pain.
The supplement was found to be safe, well tolerated, and effective at reducing moderate cyclical breast pain.
But look before you leapand consult your healthcare provider first.
They may seem harmless, but herbs and vitamins could interact with other drugs you’re taking.
Prescription Medications
Prescription medications that can be helpful include the topical anti-inflammatory medication Topricin (diclofenac).
Some combinations ofbirth control pillsmay also help reduce menstrual-related breast pain.
Keep in mind that getting relief often involves trial and error.
Slim Down
Research shows that obesity is a risk factor for breast pain.
Even a 2- or 3-pound weight loss can helpreduce breast pain.
You want the peace of mind of knowing that it’s nothing serious.
Note that breast pain is a common symptom in pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.
As such, many people mistake it for cyclic (menstrual-related) breast pain.
Notably, breast pain due to pregnancy often occurs with nipple pain and sensitivity.
Summary
Cyclical breast pain refers to breast pain that comes and goes with themenstrual cycle.
Often, these symptoms intensify just before menstruation and then gradually taper off during and after a period.
Several self-care tips may make the situation more bearable for you.
If not, see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis and other treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cyclical breast pain is usually not a sign of breast cancer.
If you have no other symptoms other than pain, the chances of breast cancer are extremely low.
It depends on why you missed your period.
Breast pain can be an early sign of pregnancy.
Also, certain birth control medications can be associated with breast pain.
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