Breast Pain
Breast pain, also known as mastalgia, is a very common breast symptom experienced by many women at different stages of life. While breast pain can understandably cause concern, particularly due to fears about breast cancer, most breast pain is not related to cancer and is often caused by benign hormonal or breast tissue changes.
A/Prof Farid Meybodi provides comprehensive assessment of breast pain using modern clinical evaluation, imaging, and evidence-based breast care to ensure accurate diagnosis, reassurance, and appropriate management where required.
Understanding Breast Pain
Breast pain may affect one or both breasts and can vary in:
- Severity
- Duration
- Location
- Timing and pattern
Some women experience occasional mild discomfort, while others may develop persistent or more significant symptoms that impact daily activities or quality of life.
Breast pain is extremely common and, in most cases, is not associated with breast cancer.
Types of Breast Pain
Breast pain is commonly divided into two main categories:
Cyclical Breast Pain
Cyclical breast pain is related to hormonal fluctuations and commonly:
- Occurs before menstrual periods
- Affects both breasts
- Feels heavy, tender, or aching
- Improves after menstruation
This is the most common type of breast pain and is usually benign.
Non-Cyclical Breast Pain
Non-cyclical breast pain is not linked to the menstrual cycle and may:
- Affect one breast only
- Be localised to a specific area
- Feel sharp, burning, or persistent
- Arise from breast tissue, chest wall, muscles, or surrounding structures
Non-cyclical pain may occasionally require further investigation depending on associated symptoms and clinical findings.
Common Causes of Breast Pain
Breast pain may occur due to:
- Hormonal breast changes
- Fibrocystic breast changes
- Breast cysts
- Muscular or chest wall pain
- Ill-fitting bras or breast support issues
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding changes
- Previous surgery or trauma
- Inflammation or infection
In many patients, no serious underlying cause is identified.
When Should Breast Pain Be Investigated?
Although breast pain alone is rarely a sign of breast cancer, certain symptoms should be assessed promptly by a breast specialist.
Red flag symptoms include:
- A new breast lump or thickening
- Persistent localised pain in one area
- Skin dimpling or redness
- Nipple inversion
- Blood-stained nipple discharge
- Swelling or changes in breast shape
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit
Any persistent breast change or concerning symptom should be properly evaluated.
Breast Assessment & Investigation
Assessment of breast pain may include:
- Clinical breast examination
- Review of symptoms and medical history
- Breast ultrasound
- Mammography where appropriate
- Breast MRI in selected cases
Imaging recommendations are tailored to the patient’s age, symptoms, examination findings, and breast cancer risk factors.
A/Prof Farid Meybodi works closely with experienced breast radiologists and imaging specialists to ensure accurate and timely assessment.
Triple Assessment Pathway
Where appropriate, breast pain may be assessed using a modern triple assessment approach involving:
- Clinical examination
- Breast imaging
- Biopsy where indicated
Biopsy is not routinely required for breast pain alone but may occasionally be recommended if imaging identifies an abnormality requiring further investigation.
Management of Breast Pain
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Many patients improve with reassurance and conservative management.
Management options may include:
- Reassurance and monitoring
- Well-fitted supportive bras
- Lifestyle and dietary modification
- Pain relief medication where appropriate
- Management of hormonal factors
- Treatment of cysts or benign breast conditions if present
Most breast pain improves over time and does not require surgery.
Reassurance & Ongoing Breast Health
Breast pain is common and, in the majority of cases, is related to benign breast conditions rather than breast cancer. However, proper assessment is important to ensure reassurance and appropriate management.
Patients should continue regular breast awareness and recommended breast screening and seek review if they notice:
- A new breast lump
- Persistent or worsening symptoms
- Skin or nipple changes
- New asymmetry or swelling
Personalised Breast Care
A/Prof Farid Meybodi provides compassionate, patient-centred assessment and management of breast pain with a focus on reassurance, clear communication, and evidence-based care.
We understand that breast symptoms can sometimes cause significant anxiety, and our goal is to provide timely evaluation, thoughtful investigation, and supportive care throughout every stage of assessment and follow-up.
