What causes breast pain when sleeping on your side?

Generally, breast pain that occurs when sleeping on one's side may be caused by physiological factors, or it could result from pathological conditions such as mastitis or fibroadenoma. A detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Physiological Factors

During the menstrual cycle, hormonal changes from the ovaries can cause corresponding changes in the breasts, possibly leading to breast tenderness. When lying on one's side, pressure on the breasts may exacerbate this pain.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Mastitis

Mastitis is breast pain caused by a breast infection. Patients may experience symptoms such as fever and pus discharge from the nipple. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients can take medications such as minocycline hydrochloride capsules, bromocriptine mesylate tablets, or Ruxiaoxiao capsules to relieve symptoms.

2. Fibroadenoma

Fibroadenoma is a benign tumor characterized by the presence of breast lumps, which may be accompanied by breast pain. Patients may take medications such as tamoxifen citrate tablets or toremifene citrate tablets under medical advice.

It should be noted that breast pain does not necessarily indicate an underlying pathological condition. However, if breast pain persists or is accompanied by other abnormal symptoms, prompt evaluation and treatment at a hospital’s breast surgery department are recommended. Additionally, to help alleviate breast pain, individuals may try adjusting their sleeping position, wearing comfortable bras, and avoiding excessive physical activity.