General Practice, by video or in person
Breast Pain
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Breast Pain
- Pain or tenderness in both breasts in the week or two before a period
- Heavy, swollen or tender breasts in early pregnancy
- A red, hot, swollen and painful area in one breast, often while breastfeeding (mastitis)
- Pain in one spot that is worse when you move the arm or press on the chest
- Pain with a lump, nipple discharge or skin changes, which needs a doctor soon
Breast pain is common and usually not serious. The most common kind follows the menstrual cycle: it starts in the days or two weeks before a period, affects both breasts, and eases once bleeding starts. Hormone changes in pregnancy and around the menopause, and medicines such as the contraceptive pill and some antidepressants, can cause it too. Pain in one breast can come from a strain of the chest, neck, shoulder or back, or from mastitis, an inflammation or infection of the breast that is common while breastfeeding. Breast pain on its own is unlikely to be a sign of breast cancer. What matters more is a new lump, a change in the shape or skin of the breast, or a change in the nipple, and these need a doctor whether or not they hurt.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Pain or tenderness in both breasts in the week or two before a period
- Heavy, swollen or tender breasts in early pregnancy
- A red, hot, swollen and painful area in one breast, often while breastfeeding (mastitis)
- Pain in one spot that is worse when you move the arm or press on the chest
- Pain with a lump, nipple discharge or skin changes, which needs a doctor soon
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital now if you have chest pain that spreads to the arm, neck, jaw or back, or comes with breathlessness, sweating or feeling sick, which can be a heart attack rather than breast pain; or a red, hot, swollen breast with a high fever, shivering or feeling very unwell, which can be a spreading infection. See a doctor soon if you find a lump, especially one that is hard and does not move; if there is nipple discharge that may contain blood, a nipple that has turned inwards or a rash on the nipple; if the shape of the breast changes or the skin dimples; or if the pain is not improving, painkillers are not helping, or you have a family history of breast cancer. A doctor can go through the pain with you by video and tell you whether you need a breast examination or a scan.
Treatment options
- A well-fitting bra during the day and a soft one at night
- Simple painkillers or a painkilling gel, on a pharmacist's or doctor's advice
- A pain diary across two or three cycles, to show whether it follows your periods
- For mastitis, carrying on breastfeeding or expressing, with antibiotics if it does not settle
- A review of medicines, such as the pill, that may be causing it
- A breast examination, and an ultrasound or mammogram, when there is a lump or another change
Common Questions
Is breast pain a sign of breast cancer?
On its own, it is unlikely. Breast cancer usually shows as a lump or a change in the breast or nipple, and it is often painless. Any new lump or change needs a doctor, whether or not it hurts.
Why do my breasts hurt before my period?
Hormone changes in the second half of the cycle make the breasts swollen and tender. It usually affects both breasts and eases once the period starts. A good bra and simple painkillers help most women.
Should I stop breastfeeding if my breast is painful?
No. With mastitis, carrying on breastfeeding, or expressing if feeding hurts too much, helps it clear. See a doctor if it is not better within a day, and go to a hospital if you have a high fever and feel very unwell.
Can a doctor assess breast pain by video?
Yes, as a first step. A doctor can tell from your history whether the pain sounds cyclical, muscular or from an infection, advise on treatment, and tell you if you need a breast examination or a scan in person.
Need Help?
A doctor on a video call, who advises on the right test and treatment, and tells you if you need to be seen in person.
See a doctor by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Breast pain. NHS. Patient information.
- Mastitis. NHS. Patient information.
- Symptoms of breast cancer in women. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 30 October 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.