4 Common Myths about Breast Pain during Menopause

By Fiorella M. | Updated: Jun 18, 2020

Ladies

Breast pain during menopause is distressing and uncomfortable, and it is also a symptom of menopause around which there are many myths. However, it is important to separate the fact from the fiction in order to seek the best treatments and avoid the mental anguish that can arise from some of the false information. Read on to learn more about some of the myths that surround breast pain during menopause.

You don't need to bear the pain
1

It Is an Inevitable Part of Menopause

Although it is a very common symptom, breast pain does not actually affect all menopausal women. There are around 20% of women who will not experience this symptom at all, and many of those who do experience breast pain will feel only very mild symptoms, such as a slight tenderness. The most severe form that many women associate with breast pain is in fact typically quite rare, with only a quarter of sufferers feels discomfort that is terribly painful and affects everyday life.

2

It Signals Breast Cancer

This belief is held normally by women who are unaware that breast pain during menopause is a natural phenomenon. Some women who feel the onset of breast pain become concerned or distressed because they believe it indicated that they have developed breast cancer. However, there is a rather weak link between breast cancer and breast pain; very rarely do breast cancer patients experience pain as a symptom, and in the same vein, there are so many different causes of breast pain that it is highly unlikely that it is a cause for concern.

3

You Just Have to Bear it

Women who suffer from breast pain during menopause usually feel a sense of despondency, and many feel there is little they can do but wait for it to go away. Although if it is left to its own devices, it will normally disappear after menopause, this can take up to ten years, and is obviously not ideal. There are a range of self-help and medical treatments that can reduce the frequency and intensity of breast pain, making menopause a far more comfortable experience.

4

It Is Always Caused by Hormones

This is in fact untrue. Although most of the time the cause of breast pain will be because of hormonal imbalances, there are a number of other factors that can come into play. Breast pain can also be caused by trauma to the breast tissue or a pulled muscle in the chest. For this reason, the most appropriate treatments will vary from woman to woman, so it is important to seek medical advice in order to know what your personal contributors are.

Breast pain is irritating, but is often harmless and can easily be treated. The best way to begin is to make a few lifestyle changes, as this is considered the cheapest, safest, and healthiest option. However, if the pain becomes chronic or incredibly severe, it is best to talk to your doctor. Read useful information about breast pain treatments to complement a healthy lifestyle.

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