Breast tenderness, also known as mastalgia, is a common condition that affects women and can be caused by various factors. Some of the most common reasons for breast tenderness include:
- Hormonal fluctuations: Breast tenderness can be related to menstruation, pregnancy, puberty, and menopause. Hormonal breast soreness, also referred to as cyclical mastalgia, is common in women who are having periods or taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Wearing an unsupportive bra: An ill-fitting or unsupportive bra can cause discomfort and pain in the breasts
- Consumption of caffeine: Excessive caffeine intake can lead to breast tenderness
- Weight gain: Weight gain can cause breasts to become heavier and more tender
- Stress: Stress can contribute to breast tenderness
- Injury or trauma to the breast: Tenderness can linger for a few days up to several weeks after trauma to the breast
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as antidepressants, high blood pressure medicines, and oral contraceptives, can cause breast pain
It is essential to track the cause of breast tenderness and consult a healthcare professional if the pain persists or worsens. While breast tenderness is a common condition, it is not a sign of breast cancer
