Breast Issues

Breast pain can have causes that aren't due to underlying disease. Examples include a tight fitting bra, pregnancy, menstruation, breast feeding or exercise.

1. You have a breast injury.

   Like any part of your body, breasts can be injured. This can happen because of an accident, while playing sports or from breast surgery. You may feel a sharp, shooting pain at the time of injury. Tenderness can linger for a few days up to several weeks after trauma to the breast.

   • Severe swelling
   • A lump in the breast
   • Redness and warmth, which could indicate an infection
   • A bruise on your breast that doesn’t go away

2. Your breasts hurt due to an unsupportive bra.

   Without proper support, the ligaments that connect breasts to the chest wall can become overstretched and painful by the end of the day. The result is achy, sore breasts. This may be especially noticeable during exercise. Make sure your bra is the correct size and provides good support.

3. Breast pain is really coming from your chest wall.

   What feels like breast pain may actually be coming from your chest wall. This is the area of muscle, tissue and bone that surrounds and protects your heart and lungs. Common causes of chest wall pain include:

   • A pulled muscle
   • Inflammation around the ribs
   • Trauma to the chest wall (getting hit in the chest)
   • Bone fracture

4. Breastfeeding is causing breast tenderness.

   Breastfeeding can sometimes be the source of breast pain. Some of the things you can experience while nursing include:

   • Painful nipples from an improper latch (the way a baby latches on to suck)
   • Tingling sensation during letdown (when the milk starts to flow to the baby)
   • Nipple soreness due to being bitten or having dry, cracked skin or an infection
   If you have pain while breastfeeding, it’s best to talk to your doctor or a lactation consultant. They can help you troubleshoot the problem while maintaining your milk supply.