What causes breast pain before menstruation?

Generally, breast pain before menstruation may be caused by various factors such as hormonal changes, water and sodium retention, mammary hyperplasia, mammary duct ectasia, and mastitis. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. The detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Hormonal Changes

Before menstruation, increased progesterone secretion from the ovaries promotes the development and expansion of breast alveoli. Estrogen also plays a role, acting together on breast tissue to cause enlargement and edema, resulting in breast pain. It is recommended to wear supportive bras, reduce caffeine and salt intake, and use warm or cold compresses to relieve discomfort.

2. Water and Sodium Retention

During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, elevated progesterone levels affect the kidneys' excretion of sodium and water, leading to fluid retention in the body, which exacerbates breast pain. In daily life, reducing salt intake, drinking more water to promote urination, and engaging in appropriate exercise can help eliminate excess fluids.

3. Mammary Hyperplasia

Mammary hyperplasia may result from endocrine disorders that cause abnormal hormone secretion, leading to lobular hyperplasia. Endocrine disorders causing abnormal hormone secretion can stimulate breast tissue proliferation, resulting in mammary hyperplasia. Symptoms may include menstrual irregularities and nipple discharge. Medications such as Ruping Xiaoyao Pills, Xiaoyao Powder, and Xiaojin Pills can be used under a doctor's guidance for treatment.

4. Mammary Duct Ectasia

Mammary duct ectasia may be related to hormonal imbalances and increased pressure within the mammary ducts. After duct expansion, accumulated fluid or secretions cannot drain properly, causing inflammatory reactions and breast pain. Accompanying symptoms may include lumps, nipple discharge, or nipple bleeding. Anti-inflammatory medications such as Metronidazole and Fenbufen Capsules, Ibuprofen Sustained-release Capsules, and Cefdinir Capsules can be used under medical advice for treatment.

5. Mastitis

Mastitis may be caused by bacterial infection of the breast tissue. Before menstruation, the body's immunity is relatively low, making it susceptible to bacterial invasion. The inflammatory response causes symptoms such as redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the breast. It may also be accompanied by fever, chills, and localized redness and swelling of the breast. At this time, antibiotics such as Amoxicillin Sodium for Injection, Carbenicillin Sodium for Injection, and Ampicillin Tablets should be used in accordance with medical advice.

It is recommended to maintain a pleasant mood in daily life and avoid excessive tension and anxiety; psychological counseling or consultation with a mental health professional may be necessary to relieve emotional stress.