Breast Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Doctor

Sore breasts commonly result from hormonal changes during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause (estrogen/progesterone cause milk duct/gland swelling and tenderness).

Potential Underlying Conditions

• Fibrocystic breast changes: Multiple noncancerous lumps; common in reproductive years.
• Breast cancer: Sore breasts can be a sign, but most lumps are benign. Any changes warrant evaluation.
• Mastitis: Bacterial infection in breastfeeding women; breast becomes swollen, red, tender.
• Galactorrhea: Milk production without breastfeeding; caused by hormonal imbalances, medications, pituitary tumors.

When to See a Doctor

Consult if sore breasts accompany:

• Breast appearance/feel changes
• Nipple discharge
• Persistent breast pain
• Fever/chills
• Unexplained weight loss

Your doctor can determine the cause and recommend treatment.