What Causes Breast Pain? Here Are 5 Reasons and Their Solutions
Breast pain or mastalgia occurs in 2/3 of women of reproductive age, most commonly between the ages of 15-40.[1] Although not dangerous, recurrent pain can interfere with your daily activities. Let's be more aware by understanding the causes of breast pain and their solutions!
Causes of Breast Pain and Their Solutions

The sensation of mastalgia varies and is not the same for everyone. Some experience pain described as pressure, throbbing, sharp, stabbing, burning, or tightness in the breast tissue. The intensity of the pain also differs.
Some people experience breast pain 2 weeks before their period starts. However, others feel pain continuously. Therefore, the characteristics of this breast pain are divided into two categories: those related to the menstrual cycle and those that are not. So, what are the causes of this problem?
1. Hormonal Changes
The main cause of breasts feeling tight and painful is hormonal fluctuations. An increase in hormones causes the breasts to swell. Usually, this pain appears a few days before menstruation and disappears when the period begins.
Increased hormone production during pregnancy also causes women to experience breast pain in the first trimester. Pain due to hormonal changes is not only felt in both breasts but can extend to the underarm area.
To overcome breast pain related to these hormonal changes, there are several things you can do. For example, by taking pain relievers, wearing comfortable and non-tight bras, using warm compresses, reducing salt and caffeine intake, and eating a low-fat diet.
2. Incorrect Bra Size
Did you know that choosing the wrong bra can cause intermittent breast pain? Some types of bras that are too small can make breasts feel constricted. In addition, underwire bras can also press into the skin or breast tissue.
Unsupportive bras will trigger pain in the ligaments that connect the breasts to the chest wall. As a result, your breasts may feel sore or achy.
The solution is to buy a bra with the right size. Choose a wireless bra with comfortable, supportive padding to hold the breasts during activity. A supportive bra helps reduce breast pain while exercising.[2]
3. Shoulder, Neck, or Back Injuries
Are you experiencing breast pain when not on your period? The cause could actually be from outside the breast area itself. Examples include injuries to nearby areas like the neck, back, and shoulders, as well as inflammation around the ribs.
Pain in the primary area can radiate to the breast area if not treated properly. This process of pain radiating to other areas is commonly known as referred pain.
If an injury has occurred, it is best to visit a doctor for proper treatment.
4. Mastitis
Why is there pain in the left breast or right breast alternately? This could be due to mastitis, a condition where the breast becomes inflamed or swollen. The main symptoms are pain or tenderness, red skin on the breast, and swelling.
Breastfeeding women most commonly experience mastitis, especially when milk production is too high and the breasts are not emptied in time. The common cause of this condition is infection, and antibiotics are needed to treat it.
If there is a breast abscess, the doctor will need to drain the pus using tools like a needle or even through a surgical procedure.
5. Breastfeeding Phase
Besides mastitis, there are several things during the breastfeeding phase that become the cause of breast pain when touched. First, improper latching, which causes sore nipples. To fix latching issues, you can consult a lactation counselor to ensure the technique is correct.
Second, nipple trauma due to the baby biting, dry skin, or infection. You can address these issues by consulting a doctor or using treatments for sore nipples.
Third, when you experience the letdown process, which is when breast milk flows due to the baby's sucking. This issue occurs naturally, so it cannot be prevented.
When Should You Be Concerned About Breast Pain?

Although this condition is not dangerous, you still need to be vigilant, especially when experiencing prolonged pain lasting more than 2 weeks. Pain that worsens and interferes with basic activities like sleeping is also a sign that needs attention.
Before reaching menopause, you will experience breast pain at least once a month. It is difficult to prevent breast pain caused by the menstrual cycle. However, to reduce this pain, you can take Sido Muncul Natural Female Balance.
This herbal supplement is specially formulated for women's health with key ingredients including Damiana, Indian Camphorweed (Beluntas), Tapak Liman, Kayu Putih, Ginger, Turmeric, and Tribulus. These ingredients work synergistically to improve menstrual cycles and relieve menstrual pain.
Other benefits include increased stamina and energy, so you can remain active and comfortable even during PMS. One bottle of the supplement contains 30 capsules, which you can take as two capsules once a day.
However, remember that this supplement should not be consumed by children under 12 years old, pregnant women, or breastfeeding mothers. You can take this supplement regularly, but its use must be stopped temporarily every 6 months.
Understanding the causes of breast pain is important. However, a healthy lifestyle and Sido Muncul Natural Female Balance are the solutions to stay active and productive at all times.
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