Cyclic breast pain


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Cyclic breast pain


Cyclic breast pain, which is caused by a woman's normal monthly hormone changes, is usually most severe before a menstrual period and then is relieved during the menstrual period. It is generally described as a heaviness or soreness, and it often radiates to the armpit and arm.

Cyclic breast pain is often accompanied by harmless breast lumpiness, also known as fibrocystic breast changes. These changes also come and go with the menstrual cycle.

Most cyclic breast pain goes away without treatment and usually disappears at menopause, when menstrual periods end.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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