How many days before menstruation does breast pain occur?

Written by Jia Rui

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Updated on March 15, 2025

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The duration of breast pain before menstruation varies depending on an individual's constitution. Typically, breast pain is a sign that menstruation is approaching, and the symptoms will gradually disappear after the onset of menstruation. If the symptoms are mild, there is no need for treatment. It is important to rest adequately and avoid overexertion. Applying a warm towel to the breasts can help alleviate the pain. Additionally, it is important to maintain a good mood and attitude during menstruation and when experiencing breast pain, and avoid becoming angry or anxious.

Other Voices

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Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

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Can cupping therapy be used for breast distension and pain?

Breast pain can be treated with cupping, but it is ineffective because breast pain is related to fibrocystic breast changes, which are often caused by endocrine disorders leading to elevated levels of estrogen. Generally, we can treat it with traditional Chinese medicine, using methods to soothe the liver and regulate qi, and harmonize the thoroughfare and conception vessels to alleviate the pain. Endocrine treatment can also be used, though it is generally avoided if possible. However, for significant pain during the pre-menopausal period, therapy can be initiated before the menstrual period. Treatment with vitamins B, C, and E can improve liver function, regulate sex hormone metabolism, and enhance autonomic nervous system functions. These serve as supplementary medication for this condition. Vitamin E in particular also helps alleviate pain.

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Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

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What's going on with breast swelling, pain, nausea, and vomiting?

Generally considered related to breast hyperplasia. We can confirm the diagnosis through breast ultrasound or mammography, paying attention to exclude the possibility of pregnancy. Breast hyperplasia is characterized by cyclic swelling and pain of the breasts, often occurring or worsening before menstruation and reducing or disappearing after menstruation. Mild cases may go unnoticed by the patient, while severe cases can affect daily life and work. However, some patients do not show obvious cyclic changes, and symptoms might present as unilateral or bilateral breast pain or pinprick-like sensation, possibly extending to the shoulder, upper limbs, or the chest-back area. A few patients may experience nipple discharge. The condition can persist for a long time, but symptoms generally disappear or lessen after menopause. During physical examination, nodular lumps of varying sizes, firm but not hard, may be felt in one or both breasts, sometimes tender when touched.

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Written by Lin Yang

Breast Surgery

1min 11sec

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Is it useful to apply potato slices for breast pain?

Applying potato slices to breast swelling and pain is ineffective, as such discomfort often relates to mammary gland hyperplasia, which is commonly believed to be associated with hormonal imbalances leading to increased estrogen levels. Therefore, for the swelling and pain caused by hyperplasia, we generally use traditional Chinese medicine treatments. By employing methods that soothe the liver and regulate Qi, aligning the Chong and Ren meridians, pain relief can be achieved. Endocrine treatments are also available but generally avoided unless the pain is particularly severe before menopause, in which case they can be taken before the onset of menstruation. Vitamin therapy is another option. Vitamins B, C, and E are known to improve liver function, regulate basal metabolic rate, and enhance autonomic nervous functions, serving as supplementary treatments for the condition. In recent years, vitamin E has also been recognized for its pain-relief properties. Proper diagnosis of breast swelling and pain also necessitates the use of color ultrasonography and mammography.

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Written by Zhang Chun Yun

Obstetrics and Gynecology

1min

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Is breast pain before menstruation the ovulation period?

Generally, breast pain before menstruation in women is more likely caused by premenstrual syndrome rather than ovulation, as ovulation occurs approximately 14 days before the onset of menstruation, which is still some time before the period starts, so typically, women do not experience breast pain due to ovulation. It is advised that women experiencing breast pain before menstruation should visit a hospital for a systematic examination under the guidance of a doctor to rule out any organic changes in the breast tissues. If it is confirmed to be caused by premenstrual syndrome, it is important to provide psychological comfort and suggestions under the advice of a doctor, helping women smoothly get through the premenstrual period. If you have further questions, please consult a doctor at the hospital.

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Written by Zhao Su Min

Obstetrics

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What should I do if I have breast engorgement and lumps during postpartum confinement?

Postpartum breast engorgement and pain with lumps may indicate milk stasis within the breast. It is recommended to let the child suckle more. If the engorgement and pain persist due to a significant amount of residual milk, you can manually express the milk or use an electric breast pump to remove it to prevent the accumulation of milk, which can lead to mastitis. If the pain is severe and accompanied by fever, it is advised to stop breastfeeding from that side and seek medical attention promptly. If necessary, oral anti-inflammatory medication may be administered. During the postpartum period, care should be taken to avoid putting pressure on the breasts.