Are nipple pain and breast tenderness the same thing?

Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
Updated on March 23, 2025
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Nipple pain and breast swelling are the same issues, both caused by mammary gland hyperplasia. Mammary gland hyperplasia mainly manifests as cyclic swelling and pain of the mammary glands, typically occurring or worsening before menstruation and diminishing or disappearing after menstruation. The mild cases get unnoticed by patients, while severe ones can impact daily life and work. However, some patients do not show obvious cyclical changes. It may present as swelling and pain in one or both breasts, similar to needle pricks, possibly extending to the shoulders, upper limbs, or thoracic-back area. A minority of patients may experience nipple discharge, and the condition can last for a long time, but symptoms usually disappear or diminish after menopause. During physical examinations, nodular lumps of varying sizes, which are tough but not hard, can sometimes be felt in one or both breasts. These lumps sometimes move when touched, and their boundaries with the surrounding breast tissue are not clear. However, they are not adherent to the skin or pectoral muscles. Sometimes it appears as a thickened area with unclear boundaries. The lumps often swell before menstruation and shrink afterward.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is breast tenderness a sign that menstruation is coming?

Normally, if breast pain occurs before each menstrual period, it is generally considered that menstruation is approaching. However, some patients may also experience breast pain in the early stages of pregnancy. This type of pain usually occurs when the menstrual period does not arrive as expected, and at this time, the breast pain might be due to pregnancy. In such cases, it is advisable to visit a hospital for early pregnancy tests to obtain a clear diagnosis. If the test results indicate that pregnancy is not the cause of the breast pain, then it is likely that menstruation is approaching. Some patients may experience breast pain due to liver qi stagnation before their period, which is considered a pathological state and generally requires medication for symptomatic treatment. If pregnancy tests are negative and breast pain occurs, it is highly likely that menstruation is imminent.

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Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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How to treat mastitis and breast pain

For breast pain caused by mastitis during milk engorgement, we can use hot compresses and massage to fully expel the milk. Locally, a 25% magnesium sulfate poultice can be applied for 20 minutes, three times a day. After breastfeeding, cold compresses can be used to reduce the pain caused by milk engorgement. In cases of mastitis, it is important to keep the nipple clean, frequently washing with soap and warm water. Before and after breastfeeding, the nipples can also be washed with 3% boric acid solution. For inverted nipples, gently squeeze out the nipple before cleaning. However, it is not advisable to wipe with ethanol, as ethanol can make the skin of the nipple and areola brittle, leading to fissures. Develop good breastfeeding habits, feed at regular intervals, ensure the milk is fully drawn each time, and if not, manually express or use a breast pump to remove the milk.

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Written by Zhang Chun Yun
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is breast pain before menstruation related to breast cysts?

Women experiencing breast pain before menstruation are advised to undergo a systematic examination at a hospital. If you suspect that you have a breast cyst, it is still advisable to undergo relevant tests to eliminate the possibility of this condition. If breast cysts are ruled out, the pre-menstrual breast pain might be due to premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Premenstrual syndrome in women often manifests as headaches, breast pain, abdominal bloating, limb edema, irritability, anxiety, depression, and emotional instability, among other symptoms. If diagnosed with PMS, psychological reassurance and counseling can be provided to help the woman relax. Additionally, a suitable diet, nutrition, and appropriate physical exercise should be considered. If necessary, medication might be taken under a doctor's prescription. For further queries, please consult a doctor at a hospital.

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Written by Lin Yang
Breast Surgery
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Can breast pain be treated with a hot compress?

Breast swelling and pain can be treated with hot compresses, but the results may not be very satisfactory. Breast pain caused by mammary gland hyperplasia is generally treated with traditional Chinese medicine, which relieves pain by soothing the liver and regulating qi, and harmonizing the Chong and Ren meridians. Endocrine treatment can also be used, preferably avoided, but can be taken before menstruation when the pain is very significant in the pre-menopausal period. When undergoing endocrine treatment, it is necessary to regularly re-examine the pelvic ultrasound, as endocrine treatment may increase the risk of endometrial cancer. Vitamin therapy can also be used; vitamins B, C, and E can improve liver function, regulate basic metabolism, and enhance autonomic nerve function, and can be used as an adjunctive treatment for this condition. Recently, vitamin E has also been considered to have pain-relieving properties, and regular ultrasound examinations of the mammary glands or mammography are necessary when breast swelling and pain occur.

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Written by Wu Shi Ting
Breast Health Department
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How to deal with breast distention and pain?

There are many reasons for breast pain, and the methods of treatment vary according to the different causes. During our adolescence, before menstruation, and during pregnancy, many people experience breast pain, which is often caused by hormonal changes in the body. Generally, the symptoms are not particularly severe, so there is no need for excessive worry or special treatment. However, many diseases can also cause breast pain, such as mastitis during breastfeeding, fibrocystic breast changes, and various breast tumors, all of which may lead to breast discomfort and require significant attention. Therefore, it is recommended that patients with breast pain seek timely medical examination to identify the cause and receive targeted treatment.