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Often there's no obvious cause for breast pain. But there are some treatments that can help.

	It is normal for your breasts to feel tender at certain times, but you may worry if your breasts are painful rather than just tender. Turn to ConsumerReportsHealth.org to better understand the causes of breast pain and how to treat the symptoms.
	Subscribe to ConsumerReportsHealth.org today and find out if lifestyle changes, diet, or medications rate best for treating this condition.

Consumer Reports Health explains the best and most up-to-date expert research and evidence about treating breast pain. Our clear and sound advice helps you and your doctor choose the best treatment options.

Key points for women with breast pain

• Breast tenderness is common at the time of menstruation, during pregnancy, or while breastfeeding.
• You may be more concerned when your breasts are painful rather than just tender, and the pain is more constant.
• Pain is not a common symptom of breast cancer. Only about 2 to 7 in 100 women with breast cancer have breast pain as their main symptom.
• Breast pain can be linked to a treatable medical condition, but often the cause remains a mystery.
• Breast pain tends to affect women between 30 and 50 years old.
• Treatments for breast pain range from topical painkilling gels to hormone medications.

Some women find that breast pain comes and goes. For others it may be a constant, sharp, and burning sensation in one or both breasts. If your pain is bad enough to interfere with your life, it's a good idea to see your doctor. If you’re experiencing any potential signs of breast cancer such as a lump, a sore that won’t heal, or other skin changes on your breasts you should see your doctor.

Our concise condition report and treatment ratings table will help you and your doctor decide which treatment for breast pain is right for you. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, we willl also help you sort through the best research and the most effective treatments for over 100 conditions and illnesses that may affect you and your family.