Avril Harry
RN, BSc Oncology Nursing
Pink Hibiscus Breast Health Specialist
Breast tenderness is a common symptom experienced by most women at some stage in their life.
It is estimated that approximately 60–70 per cent of women will experience breast pain in their lifetime. In most cases the pain develops in the days just before a period. In some cases the pain is not related to periods. It is often mild but in some women it is more severe and can affect their quality of life.
Breast pain and tenderness can be a very normal part of a woman's life, particularly when she:
�2 Is lactating (producing milk to feed her baby)
�2 Has breast cysts
�2 Is experiencing pain before or after menstruation
�2 Is premenopausal
�2 Is pregnant
�2 Is going on or off hormone replacement therapy or birth control pill
Regardless of the scenario, breast pain provokes significant anxiety for many women and is also a common breast abnormality associated with hormonal changes. It is rarely a sign of breast cancer. In fact, only ten per cent of breast cancers are accompanied by pain.
Breast pain can be a debilitating illness and there is no treatment. Some women who suffer from breast pain also have cysts which present as a lump and is usually absolutely benign.The causes have been thought to be related to hormonal shifts and imbalance, genetics, and certain foods. Bras are also among the cause of breast pain.
There are several theories as to why bras may cause breast pain. The fact that bras heat the breast is one theory, while the compression of channels leading from the breast to the lymph nodes through the structure of the bra is another. Though more research needs to be done into this area there are a few common characteristic of bras that can contribute to breast pain.
A major culprit of breast pain is an ill-fitting bra. An important question women should ask themselves: "Am I wearing the correct bra size?"
Wearing the wrong lingerie can have serious implications for your breasts. Wearing a bra that is too tight or too loose can potentially contribute to breast pain, as the breast tissue is unsupported throughout the day.
This is usually the case as the underwire pushes against your breast tissue and if you are not supported enough, all that up-down-and-all-around movement throughout the day can lead to or exacerbate breast tenderness. It is important to be properly fitted for a bra so you wear the right size.
If the pain is more severe or for the times when it may flare up worse than usual, in the first instance a conservative or non-pharmacological approach is indicated.
It is recommended that you commence a diary which documents specific characteristics of your pain, this facilitates your visit with your breast specialist. Non-pharmacological treatment options include the following: Support your breasts.
Wear a well-supporting bra when you have pain. It may be worthwhile having a bra fitted for you, as many women actually wear the wrong size of bra. Finding the right bra is not easy, particularly if you have a fuller bust.
Get it right and you will find an improvement in your posture, your comfort, the fit of your clothes, and your confidence.
Some women find that wearing a supporting bra 24 hours a day for the week before a period is helpful. It is best to avoid underwired bras. Wear a sports bra when you exercise. A soft bra at night may help you sleep more comfortably.
If you continue to have breast soreness accompanied by any other symptoms that persist we strongly recommend you be evaluated by a breast specialist.
Such a consultation would possibly include a clinical breast exam and a diagnostic evaluation in breast imaging.