Is Breast Pain After Menopause Normal?
We often get breast pain at the worst of times, but put it down to periods. However, you may start to wonder why you have breast pain after menopause and if it is something to worry about. Breast pain has many causes and doesn’t stop at a certain age, so it can be semi-normal to have some form of breast tenderness after menopause.
Is It Normal to Have Breast Pain After Menopause?
Yes, although it is less common to experience breast pain after menopause, it is usually nothing to worry about. Breast pain affects up to 70% of women between the ages of 30 and 50.
While the post-menopause stage sees a reduction in symptoms, it does not eradicate them. You may also experience breast tenderness after menopause, which is typically a subdued pain for the same reasons as below.
Breast pain is caused by a variety of issues, including:
- Breast abscess
- Breast implant issues
- Certain medicines
- Hormone changes
- Joint pain
- Larger breasts
- Mastitis
- Muscular pain
- Neck, shoulder, or back injuries
Nipple pain after menopause is also semi-normal and is typically caused by friction from clothing, allergies, or dermatitis.
What You Can Do to Reduce Breast Pain
As breast pain has such a wide array of causes, it can be difficult to determine what your specific problem is. In most cases, breast pain after menopause, and in general, disappears within a few hours.
If the pain is getting worse (but is manageable) or is prolonged, here is how you can treat it:
- Change diet
- Evening primrose oil
- Vitamin-E supplements
- Over-the-counter pain relief medicine
- Reduce caffeine intake
- Topical pain relief gel or cream
- Wear the correct size bra
These remedies may not work for nipple pain after menopause. In fact, it could make it worse, which is why we recommend changing your clothing material or size, and self-care products before seeking further advice.
If none of these methods are working or your breast or nipple pain is getting worse, call 999 for emergency help, 111 for advice, or book an appointment at your local GP surgery.
Types of Breast Pain
There are two types of breast pain (mastalgia): cyclic, which often affects both breasts and the underarm areas, and noncyclic, which typically affects only one area of one breast.
Cyclic refers to people who menstruate, or have hormonal changes or water retention. Symptoms may include:
- Breast pain
- Lumps
- Swelling
- Tenderness
Noncyclic is not related to menstruation and affects the post-menopause stage instead. Symptoms may include:
- Burning
- Sharp pain in the breasts
- Soreness
Breast Pain Assessment at Suffolk Breast Practice
Breast pain after menopause is usually nothing to worry about, but if it gets worse or persists, book an appointment with our specialist Dr Hussein Tuffaha. At Suffolk Breast Practice, rest assured you will receive the best care possible with a leading surgeon who is:
- On the UK cosmetic surgery register
- Awarded the ‘iWantGreatCare’ certificate both in 2022 and 2023
- Certified with the Royal College of Surgeons of England
- Association of Breast Surgery
- And TopDoctors
Visit our dedicated ‘Breast Pain’ page to learn more about your symptoms and how we can help you. Alternatively, contact us today to book your consultation and ensure optimal safety during post-menopause.
