What Do Breast Pain and Swelling in Women Indicate?

Many women experience breast pain or swelling at some point in their lives. While this condition is often associated with breast cancer, there can be many different causes of breast pain and swelling. The most common causes of breast pain and swelling in women are as follows:

Hormonal Causes

One of the most common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, especially in women in their 30s, is breast pain and swelling. Complaints of swelling, tenderness, pain, and tightness in the breasts typically start 3-7 days before the menstrual period and are usually felt in both breasts, particularly in the upper outer part of the breasts. Although the exact cause is not fully known, the resolution of pain during menopause is the best evidence that the symptoms are hormonal. Additionally, hormone replacement therapy and the use of birth control pills can also cause breast pain and swelling.

Pregnancy

Breast pain and swelling are common signs of pregnancy. These symptoms are often more pronounced in first-time or younger mothers. During the first trimester of pregnancy, blood flow increases, and the breasts grow. With the rise in hormones, the breasts prepare for childbirth, and as they grow, there is an increase in pain and swelling.

Breastfeeding

All women who give birth, whether they breastfeed or not, experience breast pain. As milk production increases, swelling and pain in the breasts are observed. However, if the pain intensifies and persists for a period of time, it is not a natural condition. Prolonged breast swelling and pain may also be caused by breast inflammation.

Breast Inflammation

Infection caused by blockage in the milk ducts can lead to inflammation, causing redness and swelling in the breasts. If there is inflammation in the breast due to a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection, it is important to consult a doctor.

Breast Cysts

Structures formed by fluid-filled sacs inside the breasts are called breast cysts. Cysts, which usually appear when the breast tissue grows, may be multiple. Cysts that cause pain in the breasts are generally benign. Breast cysts can grow large enough to be felt by touch. However, some breast cysts can only be detected through mammography or ultrasound.

Breast Abscess

An infection in the breast tissue can lead to inflammation, causing pus to accumulate in the breast area. A breast abscess causes pain and swelling in the breast. Typically, breast abscesses, which are usually caused by bacteria, are felt as soft lumps. Bacteria that spread through cracks in the nipple can cause inflammation in the breast tissue. If abscesses form in the breast, it is important to consult a specialist doctor for the appropriate treatment.

Breast Cancer

While breast pain and swelling are often considered signs of cancer by women, pain or swelling is generally not observed in breast cancer. The most important sign of cancer is a hard, painless, irregularly shaped lump in the breast. Breast pain is a symptom seen in the final stages of breast cancer.