Breast Pain: Causes, Tests & Treatment in Canada

Breast pain, also called mastalgia, is one of the most common concerns women bring to their family doctor or walk-in clinic in Canada. It can affect one or both breasts and may come and go or persist for several weeks or even months. While it can be alarming, the good news is that breast pain is rarely a sign of something serious.

Common Causes of Breast Pain in Canadian Women

Understanding the mastalgia causes behind your discomfort is the first step toward finding relief. Whether you experience sharp tenderness, a dull ache, or a burning sensation, knowing what triggers your symptoms helps your Canadian healthcare provider recommend the most effective care. In most cases, breast pain improves on its own within a few months, but there are proven strategies and treatments that can help you feel better sooner.

What Is Breast Pain (Mastalgia)?

Types of Breast Pain (Mastalgia): Characteristics and Management

Type of Breast Pain	Characteristics	Common Causes	Management Approach
Cyclic Breast Pain	Dull, heavy, or aching pain that follows the menstrual cycle; usually affects both breasts; most common in women aged 20–50	Hormonal fluctuations (estrogen and progesterone); fibrocystic breast changes	Well-fitted supportive bra; reducing caffeine and dietary fat; evening primrose oil; over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
Non-Cyclic Breast Pain	Constant or intermittent pain unrelated to menstrual cycle; often affects one breast in a specific area; more common after menopause	Breast cysts, fibroadenomas, previous breast surgery, large breast size, trauma	Targeted pain relief; imaging (ultrasound or mammogram); treatment of underlying cause; referral to a breast clinic if needed
Extramammary Breast Pain	Pain that originates outside breast tissue but is felt in the breast area; may worsen with movement or deep breathing	Costochondritis, muscle strain, arthritis, shingles, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)	Anti-inflammatory medications; physiotherapy; treatment directed at the underlying musculoskeletal or gastrointestinal condition
Breast Pain During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding	Tenderness, heaviness, or sharp pain; nipple sensitivity; engorgement; may include localized pain from mastitis	Hormonal changes, milk engorgement, blocked milk ducts, mastitis (bacterial infection)	Supportive nursing bra; warm or cold compresses; frequent feeding or pumping; antibiotics prescribed by a physician for mastitis
Breast Pain Associated with Medications	Diffuse tenderness or swelling in one or both breasts; onset correlates with starting a new medication	Hormone therapy, oral contraceptives, antidepressants (SSRIs), digoxin, spironolactone	Consult prescribing physician before stopping any medication; possible dose adjustment or alternative medication under medical supervision

Breast pain is any discomfort, tenderness, or soreness in the breast tissue. It is most common in women who are still having their period. It becomes less common after menopause.

Breast pain can feel like a dull ache, a burning sensation, or sharp tenderness. Some women feel it only around their period. Others notice it throughout the month. In most cases, it gets better on its own within a few months.

Common Causes of Breast Pain

There are several reasons why breast pain can develop. Most causes are related to hormones or normal body changes. Understanding the cause helps your doctor recommend the best treatment.

Common causes of breast pain include:

• Hormonal changes: Shifts in estrogen and progesterone during your menstrual cycle often cause breast tenderness. This is the most common reason for breast pain in younger women.
• Fluid retention: Many women retain water before or during their period. This extra fluid can make breast tissue feel swollen and sore.
• Injury to the breast: A bump, fall, or pressure on the breast can cause short-term pain.
• Pregnancy: Breast tenderness is often one of the first signs of pregnancy. Hormones rise quickly and cause the breast tissue to change.
• Breastfeeding: Nursing mothers often experience soreness, especially in the first few weeks. Blocked ducts or engorgement can also cause pain.
• Breast infection (mastitis): An infection in the breast tissue can cause redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. This needs prompt medical treatment.
• Breast cancer: It is important to note that breast cancer is not a common cause of breast pain. However, any new or unusual lump should always be checked by a doctor.

If your breast pain lasts more than a few weeks or keeps coming back, speak with your family doctor or visit a walk-in clinic. Early assessment gives you peace of mind and rules out anything more serious.

How Is Breast Pain Diagnosed?

When you see your doctor about breast pain, they will start by asking you questions. This is called taking a history. They will want to know when the pain started, where it is located, how long it lasts, and whether it is linked to your menstrual cycle.

Your doctor will also do a physical breast exam. They will check for any lumps, swelling, redness, or skin changes. This exam is quick and helps your doctor understand what might be causing your symptoms.

Tests for Women Under 35

If you are under 35 and your doctor finds no lumps during the exam, no further testing is usually needed. Your doctor may be confident in the diagnosis based on your symptoms and history alone. However, they will still monitor you and ask you to return if things change.

Tests for Women 35 and Older

For women aged 35 and older, especially those with a lump in the breast, your doctor will likely recommend a mammogram. A mammogram is a special type of X-ray of the breast tissue. It helps detect changes that cannot be felt during a physical exam.

In addition to a mammogram, your doctor may also order one or more of the following tests:

• Breast ultrasound (sonogram): This is a painless test that uses sound waves to create a picture of breast tissue. It is often used alongside a mammogram to get a clearer view of a lump.
• Breast biopsy: If a lump looks unusual on imaging, your doctor may remove a small sample of tissue. A specialist then examines it under a microscope to check for any abnormal cells.

According to Health Canada, regular breast health awareness and screening are key tools in detecting breast changes early. Talk to your family doctor about what screening schedule is right for your age and risk level.

Treatment Options for Breast Pain

Treatment for breast pain depends on what is causing it. Your doctor will talk through the options with you and help you choose the best approach for your situation. There is no single solution that works for everyone.

Supportive Measures

One of the simplest and most helpful steps is wearing a well-fitted, supportive bra. A good bra reduces breast movement and can significantly ease discomfort. Some women find a sports bra helpful, especially during exercise or sleep.

For mild pain, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. Always follow the directions on the label and check with your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Prescription Treatments

For severe breast pain that does not improve with other measures, your doctor may prescribe a medication called danazol. Danazol is a hormone-based drug that reduces the hormonal fluctuations linked to breast pain. It is typically only used when other treatments have not worked, as it can have side effects.

Your doctor is the best person to decide whether a prescription treatment is right for you. Never take prescription medication without medical guidance.

Alternative Approaches

Some women try alternative remedies to manage breast pain. These include reducing caffeine intake, taking vitamin E or vitamin B6 supplements, or using diuretics to reduce fluid retention.

However, as noted by the Mayo Clinic, there is currently no strong scientific evidence that these approaches reliably relieve breast pain. They may be worth discussing with your doctor, but they should not replace proven treatments.

Furthermore, most cases of breast pain resolve on their own within a few months, even without treatment. Keeping a symptom diary can help you and your doctor track patterns and identify any triggers.

When to See a Doctor About Breast Pain

Most breast pain is not dangerous. However, some symptoms need prompt medical attention. Do not wait if you notice any of the following:

• A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area
• Breast pain that does not go away after a few weeks
• Pain in only one specific spot that gets worse over time
• Redness, warmth, or swelling in the breast
• Nipple discharge that is bloody or clear and happens without squeezing
• Skin changes on the breast, such as dimpling or puckering
• Breast pain that is not related to your menstrual cycle

You can book an appointment with your family doctor or visit a walk-in clinic in your area. If you do not have a family doctor, many provinces offer health lines where a registered nurse can advise you. For example, Ontario has Telehealth Ontario (1-866-797-0000) and British Columbia has HealthLink BC (8-1-1).

According to the World Health Organization, awareness of breast changes and timely medical consultation are among the most important steps women can take for their breast health.

Breast Pain During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Breast tenderness during pregnancy is very common and is caused by rising hormone levels. Your breast tissue grows and changes rapidly to prepare for feeding your baby. This can cause significant soreness, especially in the first trimester.

During breastfeeding, pain may come from engorgement, sore nipples, or a blocked milk duct. If a blocked duct leads to an infection called mastitis, you may also develop a fever and flu-like symptoms. Mastitis needs antibiotic treatment, so contact your doctor or midwife right away if you suspect an infection.

Wearing a comfortable, supportive nursing bra and applying warm compresses can help with general breastfeeding discomfort. A public health nurse or lactation consultant can also offer guidance if you are struggling with breastfeeding-related breast pain.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Pain

Key Takeaways

• Breast pain is common and most often affects women who are still menstruating.
• Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle are the most frequent cause of breast tenderness.
• Breast cancer is rarely the cause of breast pain, but any new lump or unusual change should be checked.
• Your doctor may recommend a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy depending on your age and symptoms.
• Treatment options include supportive bras, over-the-counter pain relief, and in some cases, prescription medication.
• Most breast pain goes away on its own within a few months without treatment.
• See your family doctor or visit a walk-in clinic if your breast pain is persistent, worsening, or comes with other symptoms like a lump or skin changes.

According to Mayo Clinic’s overview of breast pain causes and treatment, this information is supported by current medical research.

For more information, read our guide on protein in urine symptoms and treatment in Canada.

This article is for general information only. Always speak with your family doctor, nurse practitioner, or a healthcare provider before starting any treatment. They can assess your individual situation and recommend the best care for you.