Breast tenderness is common and can be caused by several non-serious factors as well as some medical conditions. Here are the most likely explanations and what to do next. What might be causing tender breasts
- Hormonal changes
- Menstrual cycle: Estrogen and progesterone fluctuations can make both breasts feel tender, swollen, or lumpier in the days leading up to a period. This is the most frequent cause in people menstruating or who are pregnant or recently pregnant.
- Puberty or adolescence
- During puberty, breast tissue is still developing and can be tender as hormones surge.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Early pregnancy, hormonal shifts during early pregnancy, or lactation can cause breast tenderness.
- Medications or hormone therapies
- Some medicines (including certain birth control pills or hormone therapies) can cause breast tenderness as a side effect.
- Breast tissue changes
- Benign conditions such as fibrocystic changes or cysts can make areas of the breast feel tender or lumpy.
- Injury or physical factors
- Recent trauma, a tight or ill-fitting bra, or vigorous chest exercise can cause localized tenderness.
- Less common possibilities
- Infections (mastitis), inflammation of the chest wall, or very rarely a breast cyst or other breast conditions.
When to seek medical attention
- Tenderness is new, unilateral (one breast), severe, or accompanied by a lump, skin changes, nipple discharge, redness, warmth, or fever.
- The pain persists beyond a couple of cycles or worsens over time.
- You are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, especially if associated with missed periods or other pregnancy signs.
- You have a personal or family history of breast cancer or a known breast condition and are concerned.
What you can do to feel better
- Track timing and patterns
- Note when the pain starts, how long it lasts, whether it aligns with your menstrual cycle, and whether it’s in both breasts or just one.
- Supportive measures
- Ensure a well-fitting, supportive bra; consider a sports bra for physical activity.
- Apply warm or cool compresses to the affected area as needed for comfort.
- For many people, reducing caffeine or salt intake and avoiding smoking or certain medications may help, though evidence varies.
- Pain relief
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help if appropriate for you. Follow label directions or your clinician’s guidance.
- When to arrange care
- If you’re unsure about the cause, or if symptoms are persistent, worsening, or accompanied by a lump, nipple discharge, skin changes, or fever, book an appointment with your primary care clinician or a breast health specialist for evaluation.
If you’d like, share:
- Your age and menstrual status (e.g., regular periods, pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, or hormone therapy).
- Whether the tenderness is in one breast or both, and if you’ve noticed any lumps, discharge, or skin changes.
- Any recent changes in bras, workouts, medications, or caffeine/salt intake.
I can tailor the guidance to your situation and help you decide whether to seek in-person care.
