Breast Pain: Common Causes & What’s Normal April 3, 2025 Breast pain is common for many women, with up to 70% experiencing it at some point in their lives. Rachel Shirley, DO, FACS, with Samaritan Breast, Reconstruction & Surgical Oncology, explains the common symptoms and the potential causes of discomfort. Often, breast pain can feel like soreness, throbbing, stabbing or a sense of heaviness. While breast pain can be uncomfortable and frustrating, there is not a direct link to an increased risk of breast cancer. The causes of breast pain are often hormonal and multifactorial, making treatment challenging. Certain factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing breast pain, including larger breast size, previous breast surgery or specific medications. Other contributors of breast pain can include a high fat diet, caffeine, chocolate, nuts, cheese, smoking or vaping, bra underwires, excessive or prolonged lifting activities and stress. While small lifestyle changes can help, it is important to understand what is normal for your breasts and to discuss any persistent pain with your doctor to explore management strategies. However, if your breast pain is accompanied by a new lump, bloody nipple discharge, skin changes or indentation of the breast, you should notify your doctor promptly. Visit Samaritan Breast, Reconstructive & Surgical Oncology to learn more about comprehensive breast care services.
