Why now
Breast pain that's tied to your cycle begins up to 2 weeks before a period and goes away when the period ends. So these few days just after your period are the least tender your breasts will be all month — a good time to see what normal looks like for you.
How
-
1
Don't look for a diagnosis — look for normal. You're not meant to diagnose anything. You're only meant to know how your own breasts usually feel, so that if something changes you'll notice.
-
2
The same time every month. Comparing only means something if it's always at the same point in the cycle.
-
3
Your armpit counts too. Breast tissue runs all the way up into the armpit.
What to get looked at
Most breast lumps are not cancer. But these should be seen by a doctor:
- a new lump, especially a hard one that doesn't move
- a lump or swelling in your armpit
- a change in the shape or size of a breast
- dimpled skin, like orange peel
- fluid leaking from the nipple, especially if it's bloody
- a rash on the nipple, or a nipple that has turned inwards
And if a breast becomes red, hot and swollen, or there's a fever with it, be seen the same day.
Sources
- NHS — Breast pain
- NHS — Breast lump
Health information, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. For your own symptoms, talk to a doctor.
Your cycle, honestly.
LadyOne keeps everything on your phone — tracking, predictions, and the day’s article. No account, and no servers of ours.