What causes breast pain?

  • Hormonal changes in the days before your period
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • An ill-fitting bra
  • Breast cysts
  • Certain medicines

Breast cancer usually does not cause pain as its main symptom, though any unusual or persistent pain should still be checked to rule out other causes.

When to see a doctor See Dr. Chandak if breast pain comes with a lump, skin changes, or nipple discharge, or if the pain doesn't follow the usual monthly pattern and persists.

What to expect at the clinic

Dr. Chandak will examine you and, if needed, recommend an ultrasound or sono-mammography to look more closely at the breast tissue. Pain or a lump under the arm is covered separately on our Axillary Lump & Pain page.

Frequently asked questions

Breast pain alone is rarely a sign of cancer, since cancer usually doesn't cause pain as the main symptom. Still, persistent or unusual pain should be checked.

Yes, pain linked to your monthly cycle is common and usually not a cause for concern.

If it comes with a lump, skin changes, or discharge, or if it doesn't follow the usual monthly pattern.