Many women experience chest pain or discomfort before their menstrual period starts. This condition is known as mastalgia, and it affects around 70% of women at some point in their lives.

Mastalgia can take many different forms, including sharp pain, tenderness, swelling, and a feeling of fullness or heaviness in the breasts. If you’re experiencing chest pain before menstruation, several different factors could be causing it.

Hormonal Changes

The most likely cause of chest pain before menstruation is hormonal changes. Your menstrual cycle is controlled by a series of hormones, including estrogen and progesterone.

In the weeks leading up to your period, the levels of these hormones fluctuate, which can cause a range of physical symptoms. One common symptom of hormonal changes is breast tenderness or pain. This pain can be caused by the swelling of the breast tissue as a result of the hormonal changes.

Fibrocystic Breast Changes

Another cause of chest pain before menstruation is fibrocystic breast changes. This is a condition in which the breast tissue becomes thick and lumpy, which can cause pain and discomfort.

The exact cause of fibrocystic breast changes is not known, but it is thought to be related to hormonal changes. The condition is not usually a cause for concern, but if you are experiencing severe or persistent pain, you should speak to your doctor.

Costochondritis

Costochondritis is a condition in which the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone becomes inflamed. This can cause chest pain, particularly when you breathe deeply or move your arms.

Costochondritis is not related to hormonal changes, but it can be triggered by physical activity or injury. If you are experiencing chest pain before menstruation, it is important to rule out other causes, including costochondritis.

Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can also contribute to chest pain before menstruation. When you are stressed, your body releases a hormone called cortisol, which can cause inflammation and pain in the body.

Additionally, anxiety can cause muscle tension, which can lead to pain in the chest and other areas of the body. If you are experiencing chest pain before menstruation, it is important to consider whether stress and anxiety could be contributing to your symptoms.

Other Causes of Chest Pain

Finally, it is important to note that there are many other potential causes of chest pain before menstruation. These can include heartburn, acid reflux, and even heart disease.

If you are experiencing severe or persistent chest pain, it is important to speak to your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.

Treatment for Chest Pain Before Menstruation

If you are experiencing chest pain before menstruation, there are several steps you can take to manage your symptoms. These include:.

Wearing a supportive bra
Applying heat or cold to the affected area
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
Avoiding caffeine and salty foods, which can exacerbate breast tenderness
Engaging in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation or yoga

If your symptoms are severe or interfering with your daily life, your doctor may recommend additional treatment options, such as prescription medication or hormone therapy.

Conclusion

Chest pain before menstruation is a common and often harmless condition. However, it is important to rule out any underlying health conditions and to manage your symptoms to prevent discomfort and pain.

By understanding the causes of chest pain before menstruation and taking steps to manage your symptoms, you can improve your quality of life and reduce the impact of this condition on your daily routine.