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Breast Care Specialist

What is Mastalgia?

Mastalgia (Breast Pain) refers to pain, tenderness, or discomfort in the breast that may vary in intensity and duration. Breast pain can affect one or both breasts and may be continuous or intermittent. Mastalgia is a common breast condition often associated with hormonal changes, fibrocystic breast disease, breast infections, or lifestyle-related factors. Identifying the exact cause of breast pain is important for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Early evaluation by a breast specialist helps rule out serious conditions and ensures proper breast care.

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Breast Pain Clinic

Common Causes of Breast Pain

Breast pain can occur due to hormonal changes, benign breast conditions, infections, or certain lifestyle-related factors.

Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone — especially around menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.

Fibrocystic Changes

Lumpy, tender breast tissue caused by benign cyst formation — very common and non-cancerous.

Fibroadenoma

Non-cancerous breast lumps that can cause pressure or mild pain — more frequent in younger women.

Breast Infection or Abscess

Mastitis or abscess causing localised redness, warmth, swelling, and pain — more common in breastfeeding women.

Duct Ectasia

Widening and blockage of milk ducts causing inflammation, nipple discharge, and breast pain.

Lifestyle & External Factors

Ill-fitting bras, high caffeine intake, stress, and certain medications (e.g. hormonal therapy) can all contribute to breast pain.

Diagnosis & Evaluation

At our clinic, we follow a comprehensive and structured approach to accurately diagnose the cause of breast pain and related conditions.

Clinical Examination

  • Detailed clinical breast examination
  • Assessment of pain location & pattern
  • Evaluation of physical symptoms

Imaging Tests

  • Breast ultrasound for detailed imaging
  • Mammography (if required)
  • Advanced imaging for accurate diagnosis

Further Evaluation

  • Biopsy or additional tests (if needed)
  • Family history & risk factor assessment
  • Personalized diagnosis & treatment planning

Treatment Options

Effective management of breast pain includes lifestyle changes, medical treatment, and addressing underlying conditions.

Conservative Management
Conservative Management
  • Lifestyle and dietary modifications
  • Proper breast support (well-fitted bras)
  • Stress management
Medical Treatment
Medical Treatment
  • Pain-relieving medications
  • Hormonal therapy (if required)
Underlying Conditions
Treatment of Underlying Conditions
  • Management of infections or abscess
  • Treatment of benign breast diseases

Preventive Care & Tips

Taking simple preventive steps can help reduce breast pain and improve overall breast health.

01
Regular Self-Examination

Perform regular breast self-exams to detect any unusual changes early.

02
Healthy Lifestyle

Maintain a balanced diet and regular physical activity for overall wellness.

03
Reduce Caffeine Intake

Limit caffeine and fatty foods if you notice increased breast sensitivity.

04
Proper Support

Wear well-fitted and supportive undergarments to reduce discomfort.

05
Routine Check-ups

Schedule regular clinical check-ups for early diagnosis and care.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions — Breast Pain (Mastalgia)

In the vast majority of cases, breast pain is not a sign of cancer. Most causes of mastalgia are benign — such as hormonal changes, fibrocystic tissue, or infections. However, any new, persistent, or unexplained breast pain should be evaluated by a specialist.
Cyclical breast pain is linked to the menstrual cycle and usually worsens before periods. Non-cyclical breast pain is unrelated to periods and may be continuous, one-sided, or localised. Both types can be effectively treated.
Consult a specialist if breast pain lasts more than 2–3 weeks, becomes severe, is associated with a lump or nipple discharge, or affects your daily life. Early evaluation provides reassurance and faster treatment.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Many women improve with lifestyle changes, stress management, and proper breast support. Dr. Dhanda may also recommend medication or treatment for conditions such as cysts, infections, or fibroadenoma.
Yes. Dr. Mallika Dhanda treats cyclical and non-cyclical breast pain, fibrocystic disease, infections, duct ectasia, and other benign breast conditions. She consults at Medanta Noida and offers both in-person and online appointments.

Dr. Mallika Dhanda

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