Pain when squeezing your breasts can stem from various causes, most often benign. Hormonal fluctuations are a significant contributor. Changing hormone levels affect the milk ducts and glands, potentially causing painful cysts. This is a common cause of cyclical breast pain, meaning the pain fluctuates with your menstrual cycle. Non-cyclical pain might result from trauma, previous breast surgery, or other factors.
Common Causes of Breast Pain Upon Squeezing:
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Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels throughout the menstrual cycle are frequently implicated in breast tenderness and pain. [Changing hormone levels can cause changes in the milk ducts or milk glands](reference information provided). These changes can lead to the formation of cysts, which are often painful when pressure is applied.
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Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs within breast tissue, cysts are a common cause of breast pain, particularly when palpated or squeezed. The pain can range from mild discomfort to significant tenderness.
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Trauma: A direct blow or injury to the breast can result in pain and tenderness, particularly upon squeezing the affected area. Bruising may also be present.
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Infections: While less common outside of breastfeeding, infections can cause breast pain and tenderness.
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Fibrocystic Breast Changes: This condition involves the development of lumps and cysts in the breast tissue. These changes are often painful to the touch.
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Other Conditions: Less frequently, underlying conditions like fibroadenomas (noncancerous breast tumors), mastitis (breast infection), or even some forms of breast cancer can cause breast pain. However, it's crucial to note that breast pain alone is rarely a symptom of breast cancer.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
While many causes of breast pain are harmless, it's important to seek medical advice if:
- The pain is severe or persistent.
- You notice a lump or thickening in your breast.
- You have nipple discharge that occurs without squeezing.
- The discharge is bloody or clear (not milky).
- The pain is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or skin changes.
Regular breast self-exams and routine mammograms are vital for early detection of any serious conditions.
