Breast Pain Causes and Treatments You Should Know

Breast development occurs at the start of puberty due to the increase in oestrogen and progesterone. Many girls experience:

• Sensitivity to pressure
• Sharp or pulling pains
• One-sided growth and hardening under the skin

These complaints are completely normal and a sign of physical maturation. They usually disappear after a few months or years.

For many women, cycle-related breast pain is a familiar experience. This pain usually occurs between ovulation and the start of the next menstrual period during the luteal phase.

Typical symptoms:

• Feeling of tension
• Painful nipples
• Lump-like feeling (not permanent)
• Occurs on both sides before menstruation

The female cycle is controlled by different hormones, including oestrogens and progesterone. After ovulation, progesterone levels rise abruptly, which can cause water retention in the breast tissue. This in turn can lead to breast pain. At the same time, the breast tissue becomes more perfused, which leads to an increase in breast size and weight, resulting in feelings of tension. The symptoms usually subside quickly after the onset of your period.

Breast pain is often one of the first signs in early pregnancy. The body prepares hormonally for breastfeeding:

• The breasts become larger, heavier and more sensitive
• Tightness due to tissue proliferation
• Sensitivity of the nipples to touch

During breastfeeding, milk retention or breast inflammation (mastitis) can also occur.

• Localised redness
• Swelling
• Fever and severe pain.

Perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause, brings with it irregular cycles and hormonal turbulence. Oestrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate greatly - this can again lead to breast pain, even if it has not occurred before.

Typical complaints:

• Cycle-independent pain
• Sensitivity of the nipples
• Nodular hardening
• Combination with hot flushes and sleep disorders

In addition to hormonal reasons, there are also cycle-independent triggers:

• Cysts and fibroadenomas (benign tissue changes)
• Incorrect bra (too tight or without support)
• Medication (e.g. hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants)
• Stress or psychosomatic reactions
• Muscle tension in the chest or back area

Physical activity: Regular physical activity can improve blood flow to the chest region and help reduce swelling and fluid retention that can cause chest pain. In addition, physical activity releases endorphins that can relieve pain. An active lifestyle can also help to stabilise hormone levels, which can have a positive effect on the menstrual cycle and therefore on breast pain. Especially recommended are:

• Walks
• Cycling
• Yoga
• Gentle strength training

Exercise also releases endorphins - the body's own painkillers that reduce the sensation of pain.

• Applying cooling compresses to painful breasts can reduce swelling and inflammation.
• The cold constricts the blood vessels, reducing discomfort. This is particularly effective if the pain is associated with an inflammatory response.

The wrong bra can increase breast pain. We recommend

• an underwired bralette made of soft material
• or a sports bra with gentle support without pinching

Some women also find it beneficial not to wear a bra at all during painful periods, especially at home. Important: In any case, the breasts should not be subjected to additional pressure or constriction.

• Monk's pepper preparations: can balance hormonal fluctuations in the female cycle and thereby reduce premenstrual symptoms, including breast pain.

• St John's wort: can relieve mood swings and tension associated with premenstrual symptoms.

These herbal preparations may therefore have a positive impact on the menstrual cycle and associated breast pain.