What causes postmenopausal breast pain?

Written by Wu Shi Ting

Breast Health Department

Updated on September 06, 2024

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Breast pain after menopause is generally temporary and a normal physiological response. It is mainly due to a decrease in the speed of endogenous estrogen secretion, and the breast tissue has not adapted to this change, resulting in localized pain. These symptoms will gradually disappear after menopause is completely stopped, so there is no need to be overly nervous, just make sure to get regular check-ups. However, if breast pain occurs years after menopause, it is necessary to be vigilant as it may indicate a disease. Since postmenopausal elderly women are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer, it is advised that patients with postmenopausal breast pain seek timely medical examinations at a hospital.

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What is causing breast swelling, pain, and discharge of pus?

Breast pain and hyperplasia are related, while purulent discharge might be caused by inflammation within the ducts. Usually, this can be diagnosed through ductoscopy. If it is inflammation, the lesions can be identified under ductoscopy, and then can be treated through washing with metronidazole and gentamicin, achieving a cure. However, there is a scenario where the issue is due to previously forcefully suppressing milk expulsion, leading to a large amount of milk residue in the ducts, causing purulent discharge. In this case, local heat application followed by massage and milk expulsion performed by a professional lactation masseuse can cure the condition. Regular follow-up with ultrasound and mammography of the breast is needed in the future. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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What's going on with my breast swelling and pain since I haven't had my period for 38 days?

Menstrual delay for 38 days and breast pain are likely signs of pregnancy. Since your period is 38 days late, it is recommended to visit a hospital for confirmation of pregnancy. You can have blood tests and an ultrasound performed. If you are pregnant and decide not to keep the child, you can take this time to carefully consider and discuss with your family before making a decision to terminate the pregnancy. If you decide to continue the pregnancy, early symptoms like breast pain may be accompanied by other signs, such as excessive sleepiness, nausea, and vomiting. It is important to rest appropriately, avoid strenuous exercise, and eat a balanced diet. For specific guidance, please consult a doctor at the hospital and follow the medical advice provided.

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Is massage useful for breast distension pain?

Breast pain massage can be effective, but the effect is not very clear. Breast pain is generally related to breast hyperplasia, which is often linked to increased levels of estrogen due to endocrine disorders. Under normal circumstances, for symptoms that are quite obvious, we can use traditional Chinese medicine for treatment, which alleviates the pain through methods such as soothing the liver and regulating Qi, as well as harmonizing vital energy. Vitamin treatment can also be used. Vitamins B, C, and E improve liver function, regulate sex hormone metabolism, and enhance autonomic nervous function, serving as auxiliary medications for this condition. Vitamin E also has a pain-relieving effect. Endocrine treatment can also be used, although it is generally best avoided if possible. However, for patients in the pre-menopausal period who experience significant pain, it can be taken before the onset of menstruation.

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Will breast pain still occur if pregnant in the same month as premenstrual breast swelling and pain?

If women experience breast pain before menstruation, it is likely caused by premenstrual syndrome. Premenstrual syndrome in women is often caused by psychological stress and mental factors. It generally causes symptoms such as headaches, breast pain, limb edema, and abdominal bloating. At this time, it is advisable to give psychological suggestion under the guidance of a doctor. Generally, psychological comfort and guidance should be provided to help women relax. Additionally, a reasonable diet, increased nutrition, appropriate physical exercise, and quitting smoking are all good treatment methods for premenstrual syndrome, as it is caused by psychological and mental stress in women. Therefore, it is possible that a woman might still feel tense after becoming pregnant, which might result in chest pain. The specific situation depends on the individual conditions of the woman, as not all women necessarily experience chest pain. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze each case individually. If further questions arise, please consult a doctor at a hospital.

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Should I use cold or hot compress for breast pain?

For breast tenderness, we generally choose hot compresses to reduce pain. For the occurrence of mammary gland hyperplasia, it is recommended to use medication for symptomatic treatment, which may include traditional Chinese medicine. This treatment involves soothing the liver and regulating qi, and balancing the thoroughfare and conception vessels to alleviate pain. Endocrine treatments are also an option, but they are ideally avoided if possible. However, for significant pain during the pre-menopausal period, medication can be taken before the onset of menstruation. Vitamin treatments with vitamins B, C, and E, which help improve liver function, regulate hormone metabolism, and enhance autonomic nerve functions, can be used as adjunctive medications for this condition. Vitamin E also has pain-relieving properties. For individuals with a family history of breast cancer, localized lesions in part of the breast, noticeable lumps after menstruation or dense shadows or microcalcifications on a mammographic film, a biopsy or a Mammotome rotational excision procedure should be performed, and surgical treatment may be necessary if required.