Breast pain explained

A staggering two out of every three women suffer with breast pain at some point in their lives. But however uncomfortable your breasts feel, the good news is that pain alone is a very uncommon symptom of breast cancer.

What are the causes of breast pain?

There are two types of breast pain, cyclical or non-cyclical, and the size of your breasts makes no difference as to whether you are more likely to suffer from it.

Cyclical breast pain

This is by far the most common type and the pattern is almost always the same: discomfort and pain about a week or two before a period which is relieved once the cycle starts. Symptoms include aching, swelling and/or tenderness in both breasts. The pain is taught to be caused by a sensitivity to fluctuating levels of oestrogen and progestrone which occur naturally through the menstrual cycle. Studies have shown that a sensitivity to breast pain is linked to low levels of the fatty acid, gamolenic acid (GLA), in a woman’s system.

Non-cyclical breast pain

This is more likely to be caused by a cyst, abscess, lumpy breast, nipple discharge, pregnancy, bad posture, badly-fitting bra or injury of the ribs or muscles. The pain is not affected by the menstrual cycle and is likely to occur only in one breast. The feeling is often described as stabbing, burning or pricking. If you’re unsure as to the reason for the pain, or it continues, it’s best to get advice from your doctor.

Could it be breast cancer?

It is unsual for pain to be the only symptom of cancer, but when it does occur the pain is persistent, it always hurts in the same place and generally occurs in just one breast. Breat cancer is rare in women under 35.

What can you do about it?

Painkillers will ease the immediate pain. In the long term, it helps if you cut down on foods containing high levels of saturated fat (butter, cheese, cream and fatty meats) which increase breast sensitivity. It can also make a difference if you reduce caffiene levels (tea, coffee, cola drinks and chocolate). Studies have shown that taking evening primrose oil can make a difference up to 70% of women have found it helps but you need to be sure it contains enough of the active ingredient, GLA. The recommended daily dose is 240 mg, taken throughout your menstrual cycle.

How your doctor can help

If the pain is severe enough and you’ve found that self-help strategies don’t work, your doctor can help by prescribing GLA in more effective doses than is available over the counter. But it can be anywhere between two or three months before you feel the full benefit. The combined oral contraceptive pill can also relieve pain and discomfort. For extreme cases, doctors may prescribe other hormonal treatments, but they can have unpleasant side effects.

– Adapted from article by Michelle Simmons, health editor, Essence Magazine.