Breast soreness or tenderness, often accompanied by a sensation of fullness, is a highly common occurrence. In most women, it follows a cyclical pattern, with varying intensity corresponding to hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle. The tenderness is typically more pronounced prior to the onset of menstruation. This condition commonly affects both breasts and can be exacerbated by stress or caffeine consumption. Noncyclical breast tenderness may arise from causes such as muscle strain or mastitis, while during lactation, it may result from breast engorgement due to milk production. In rare cases, tenderness may be attributed to a breast cyst or breast cancer. A medical examination is necessary to rule out any underlying issues and provide appropriate assessment and guidance.
It is worth noting that women with larger breasts have a higher likelihood of experiencing both cyclical and noncyclical breast tenderness.
Cyclical breast tenderness can often be alleviated by implementing certain measures, such as reducing caffeine consumption, practicing relaxation exercises to manage stress, wearing a properly fitted bra, or considering weight loss to reduce breast size. If these strategies prove ineffective, hormonal treatment may be advised as an alternative approach.