Breast pain (mastalgia) is a common type of discomfort among women, which affects an estimated 70 percent of women at some point in their lives.

Younger, premenopausal women experience breast pain more than older women but postmenopausal women can experience breast pain as well.

Breast pain alone rarely signifies breast cancer. However, if you are experiencing unexplained breast pain that's raising your level of concern about breast cancer or otherwise disrupting your life, it is recommended that you see a professional health care practitioner.

Breast pain may be cyclic, noncyclic or extramammary.

The characteristics of cyclic breast pain differ from those of noncyclic breast pain:

Cyclic Breast Pain - This is the most common type of breast pain which usually occurs in a pattern related to the menstrual cycle and affects both breasts in all areas. A woman may also feel tenderness, swelling or lumpiness in addition to the pain with cyclic breast pain. The pain tends to intensify most during the week or two before a woman’s period and seems to ease up afterward. Women most affected are in their 30's & 40's.

Noncyclic Breast Pain - Often described as burning, achy or sore, this pain is constant and is unrelated to the menstrual cycle. In most cases, noncyclic breast pain occurs in only one breast and tends to be localized to a specific area in the breast. Women most affected are in the 40's or 50's and who are postmenopausal.

Extramammary Breast Pain - Comes from a source that is actually not the breast, such as muscles in the chest wall, but it may feel like it's originating in the breast.

At this time, the exact cause of breast pain cannot be determined in most circumstances, but several theories exist regarding possible causes including:

• Hormones (Cyclic)
  
  
• Breast Cysts, Breast Trauma, Prior Breast Surgery or other factors localized to the breast (Noncyclic)
  
  
• An imbalance of fatty acids within the cells
  
  
• Certain Medications
  
  
• Weight Gain
  
  
• Tumors

For tips on treating & preventing breast pain naturally, see the regimen outlined below:

Eat a high fiber diet.

Avoid caffeine, chocolate, butter and salt.

Limit salt intake as excessive sodium intake causes fluid buildup in the breasts.

Take 30 to 60 minute walks on a daily basis, which will help get the blood pumping and stretch the muscles. This is also a great way to relieve stress and anxiety, which can also contribute to breast pain.

Be sure to maintain an ideal weight to keep hormone levels stable. If necessary, lose excess weight.

Wearing a good quality bra that fits well and properly supports the breasts is beneficial, especially when exercising.

To reduce swelling and discomfort, apply ice packs for 10 to 15 minutes.

Supplementing with the following may also be helpful:

Vitamin E (take as directed on label) - Shields the tissues of the body from damage from free radicals.

Dong Quai - Used to alleviate a wide range of female complaints.

Evening Primrose Oil - Very effective for relieving breast discomfort.

Black Currant Seed Oil - Reduces breast tenderness associated with PMS.

High-Potency Multivitamin and Mineral Supplement (take as directed on label) - Can help reduce breast pain and lumps.

Sarsaparilla, Buchu and Uva-Ursi - Herbal diuretics that can help prevent fluid retention.

* Important note: The recommended doses are for those over age 18. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.