Types of Breast Pain: Cyclic and Non-Cyclic Differences

Posted on: Mar 24, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Types of Breast Pain: Cyclic and Non-Cyclic Differences

Breast pain, known as mastalgia, is of two types. Before getting to understand the types of breast pain and how they are different from each other, you should know that there is no need to panic when you experience breast pain. Breast pain is related to breast cancer in rare cases only.

Usually, when you have breast pain, you will experience discomfort in your breast tissues. The pain can be tender, sharp, or like a burning sensation. Understanding the types of pain will help you diagnose the cause of the pain and get it treated on time. Keep reading to understand more about the types of breast pain and the nature of pain in each type.

What are the Types of Breast Pain

The most common types of breast pain are cyclic and non-cyclic. Here is a table to help you understand more about these types in detail:

Cyclic Breast Pain	Non-Cyclic Breast Pain
This common breast pain occurs during menstrual cycles and hormonal changes.	This doesn’t occur commonly. It is unrelated to the menstrual cycle and hormonal changes. You will feel this pain all the time.
The pain may be dull or heavy. It is noticed only during certain times.	This pain causes severe tightness in the breast tissues. The pain is like a stabbing or burning sensation.
You will often experience swelling or fullness of breasts whenever the pain occurs.	You will experience this pain constantly, and it doesn’t make your breasts feel full.
You will experience this pain in the upper and outer portions of both breasts. Sometimes, the pain may extend to the underarms as well.	Pain is usually experienced only in one breast, in a particular area. In some cases, the pain is felt throughout the breast.
The intensity of cyclic mastalgia is severe during the two weeks before the start of your menstrual cycle. Once this cycle ends, the pain will slowly start to reduce. Women in their 20s, 30s and 40s usually experience this pain.	Non-cyclic mastalgia is mostly experienced by women who have crossed the menopause phase (usually women in their late 40s and above).

Conclusion

While cyclic mastalgia is very common, non-cyclic mastalgia is rare, and it may indicate an underlying health issue. Observe the nature and cycle of your breast pain to seek medical help at the right time. If the breast pain doesn’t allow you to do your routine activities, or if the pain continues to remain on only one breast for more than two weeks, consult a doctor immediately.

Also, invest in a good health insurance plan to cover medical and surgical costs.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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