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Mastalgia (Breast Pain)

Breast pain experienced by most women is generally benign but requires detailed evaluation.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Mastalgia (Breast Pain)?

Mastalgia is pain felt as burning, aching, or heaviness in breast tissue. Cyclic mastalgia is related to the menstrual cycle and most often seen in reproductive years, increasing in the luteal phase. Non-cyclic mastalgia is independent of the cycle and usually unilateral.

Etiology includes hormonal changes, fibrocystic structure of the breast, inadequate support undergarments, caffeine and nicotine effects, medications (OCs, psychiatric drugs), breast surgery, and rarely underlying malignancy.

Evaluation includes detailed history, examination, age-appropriate mammography/ultrasound, and biopsy when needed. Treatment involves reassurance, lifestyle recommendations, appropriate bra selection, and medical agents (evening primrose oil, danazol, tamoxifen) when needed.

Symptoms

Cyclic pain and swelling in both breasts
Tenderness increasing in the luteal phase
Unilateral localized pain
Burning, stinging, or heaviness
Radiation to the chest wall
Triggered by activity

Risk Factors

Reproductive age and premenstrual period
Fibrocystic breast changes
Caffeine and smoking
Hormonal therapies
High stress
Family history

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When pain is unilateral and persistent
  • When accompanied by mass, skin retraction, or nipple discharge
  • For new complaints over age 40
  • Severe pain resistant to analgesics
  • When breast pain develops postmenopausally

Treatment Methods

01
History and clinical examination
02
Age-appropriate imaging
03
Reassurance and lifestyle recommendations
04
Appropriate supportive bra use
05
Topical NSAID and evening primrose oil
06
Danazol or tamoxifen in selected cases

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.