What causes breast pain during menstruation?

Written by Fan Hong Qiao

Breast Health Department

Updated on September 09, 2024

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The menstrual period is a time when female hormone levels fluctuate, which is the fundamental reason why most women experience breast pain during menstruation. Due to the fluctuation of hormone levels, there is an increase in breast tissue and edema in the interstitial tissue of the breast, ultimately causing the sensation of breast pain. If the breast pain during menstruation does not ease after the period, or if the pain is very severe, or even painful to touch, attention is needed. This is considered pathological breast pain, likely caused by breast disease, and could be related to breast hyperplasia, mastitis, or even breast tumors. It is necessary to consult a professional doctor for a breast diagnosis.

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The difference between breast prickling pain and swelling pain.

Breast tingling and soreness are no different; they are both manifestations of breast hyperplasia. The main symptoms of breast hyperplasia include cyclic swelling and pain in the breast, which often appear or worsen before menstruation and diminish or disappear after menstruation. Mild cases may not be noticed by the patient, while severe cases can affect daily life and work. However, some patients do not exhibit obvious cyclical changes, and some may experience soreness in one or both breasts, or needle-like pain, which can extend to the shoulders, upper limbs, or chest and back area. A few patients may have nipple discharge, with the color of the discharge ranging from yellow, brown, or bloody. The duration of the condition can sometimes be lengthy, but symptoms typically alleviate or disappear automatically after menopause.

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Can breast distension and pain be treated with moxibustion?

Breast distension pain can be treated with moxibustion, but the results might not always be satisfactory as breast distension pain is related to mammary gland hyperplasia, which is believed to be connected to increased estrogen levels caused by endocrine disorders. Generally, we use traditional Chinese medicine for treatment, which relieves pain through methods that soothe the liver and regulate Qi, and harmonize the thoroughfare and conception vessels. Endocrine treatment is also an option but is used as sparingly as possible. However, it can be administered before menstrual onset in cases where pain is significantly pronounced in the pre-menopausal phase. Regular pelvic ultrasound re-examinations must be conducted during endocrine treatment due to the increased risk of endometrial cancer that this treatment might entail. Treatment with vitamins such as vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E can also be used, as they aid in improving liver function, regulating sex hormone metabolism, and enhancing autonomic nervous system functions, serving as adjunctive medication for this condition. (Medication should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

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What is the cause of breast pain before menstruation?

If breast pain occurs before menstruation, it is likely due to stagnation of liver qi, caused by discomfort of liver qi. Initially, one can use some traditional Chinese medicines that soothe the liver and regulate qi for treatment, which are very helpful in alleviating these symptoms. It is also important to avoid frequent anger, anxiety, and excessive heat, as these can affect menstruation and lead to breast pain during this period. If symptoms of premenstrual breast pain recur, it is also necessary to visit a hospital for a detailed examination, and an ultrasound of the breast can be performed to check for any breast lumps or related symptoms.

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Is breast swelling and pain before menstruation a sign of pregnancy?

Breast tenderness before menstruation is not necessarily a sign of pregnancy. Elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone before menstruation can also cause breast tenderness, as can the early stages of pregnancy. Therefore, if women of childbearing age experience a delay in menstruation and breast tenderness, they should promptly take a urine pregnancy test and, if necessary, have a blood HCG test to check for pregnancy. If pregnancy is not the case, they should wait to see if menstruation occurs. It is advisable to avoid getting cold, refrain from eating spicy and irritating foods, and maintain cleanliness of the external genitalia.

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Do women experience breast pain during ovulation?

Women experience symptoms of breast swelling and pain during ovulation due to hormonal levels in the body, which is a normal physiological phenomenon and should not be overly concerning. Generally, these symptoms will disappear after ovulation. If the symptoms of breast swelling and pain are severe, it is advisable to promptly visit a reputable local hospital for relevant examinations to determine the specific cause. Under the guidance of a clinician, treatment should be given according to the symptoms. It is recommended that women should rest during ovulation, avoid strenuous exercise, maintain genital hygiene, and wear loose, breathable underwear.