SPM y síntomas del ciclo

Cyclical breast pain

Revisado: 4 de octubre de 2026

Solo en inglés por ahora

Breast pain that comes and goes with your cycle is common and rarely serious. Here is how it feels, what helps and when to get it checked.

What cyclical breast pain is

Sore breasts are very common, and the cause is rarely serious. On its own, it is unlikely to be a sign of cancer. Pain that comes and goes with your periods is called cyclical breast pain, and it is linked to the hormone changes of the cycle. Tender or swollen breasts are one of the most common signs of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Breasts can also get sore during pregnancy and around menopause, when hormones change too.

How it usually feels

Cyclical breast pain usually starts up to 2 weeks before a period. It tends to get worse as the period comes closer, and then goes away when the period ends. It usually feels dull, heavy or aching. It often affects both breasts, and the ache can spread into the armpit.

Other causes of breast pain

Not all breast pain is linked to periods. Strains or injuries to the neck, shoulder or back can be felt as pain in the breast. Some medicines, including the contraceptive pill and some antidepressants, can cause breast pain. Mastitis (a painful, swollen breast, sometimes caused by an infection), or a collection of pus called a breast abscess, can also cause pain and needs to be checked by a doctor.

What can help

Wear a well-fitted bra during the day and a soft bra at night. Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, or a painkilling gel rubbed on the breasts, can ease the ache. There is little evidence that vitamin E tablets or evening primrose oil help. Noting breast pain in Ciclo for a few cycles can show whether it follows your period.

When to see a doctor or nurse

See a doctor or nurse if breast pain is not improving or painkillers are not helping. Also see one if breast cancer runs in your family or you could be pregnant. Ask for an urgent appointment if you find a hard lump in your breast or armpit, a breast changes shape, the skin looks dimpled like orange peel, the nipple turns inwards or has a rash, or fluid comes from the nipple. Get medical advice the same day if you have breast pain with a very high temperature, or you feel hot, cold or shivery. Do the same if part of your breast is red, hot or swollen.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. If you find a lump or notice a change in your breast, see a doctor or nurse.