Breast pain after menopause

Sore breasts, also known as mastalgia, are very common during menstruation. However, having hormone therapy during menopause can also increase the risk of continued breast pain.  

Experiencing breast pain after menopause is less common, and so don’t assume that it is due to hormonal changes. It is important to speak to your GP if you have this.  

Breast pain in my armpit

Breast cancer may be a cause of underarm swelling and pain. Enlarged lymph nodes can cause discomfort. If you notice any changes on or around your armpit or chest, speak to your GP. Breast cancer can be present even if you don’t feel a lump or other symptoms in your breast. This applies to both men and women.

Breast pain and nausea

Breast pain with simultaneous feelings of sickness/nausea is most commonly associated with pregnancy. You should get checked out by your doctor if you have these symptoms. 

Breast pain and sore nipples

Sore nipples and associated breast pain could occur for a variety of reasons. Friction/Jogger’s nipple, hormone changes, sexual contact, breast cancer, Paget’s disease, and nipple pain during pregnancy can all cause these symptoms.  

While these symptoms can be fairly common, it is important to look out for any pain that is unusual and persists over a period of time. It is important to get checked out if you are worried. 

Breast pain and stress

Stress can cause a range of health issues including hormone imbalances. These in turn can increase cyclical breast pain (breast pain linked to periods), particularly for menstruating women. 

Breast pain in both breasts

Many women feel discomfort and lumpiness in both breasts a week or so before their period. 

The pain can vary from mild to severe and the breasts can also be swollen, tender and sore to touch. Cyclical breast pain is linked to changing hormone levels during the menstrual cycle. The pain often goes away once a period starts. 

If it doesn’t go away when your period ends, or you don’t have periods, you should contact your GP for advice.  

Breast pain in early adulthood

Many young women experience pain as their breasts grow and this is nothing to worry about. Breasts develop as the hormones estrogen and progesterone are released at puberty. These hormones make the breast tissue grow. As it does, the surrounding skin may stretch, which is one reason breasts can hurt when they grow. However, if you are worried, you should speak to or your GP. 

Breast pain in older women

Breast pain is less common in post-menopausal women. If you are post-menopausal and are experiencing breast pain then you should visit your GP for an examination.