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Women google this common menopause symptom most

Photo credit: Unsplash
Photo credit: Unsplash

From Red Online

Menopause and perimenopause symptoms differ from woman to woman, but there are some that are more common than others.

Lots of us know about hot flushes and brain fog. When it comes to sore breasts and menopause though, we're less clued up and often end up Googling in search of more information.

So, we asked Dr Cat Hyatt, a GP based in Dorset, to explain the facts around breast pain and menopause.

Are sore breasts a symptom of menopause?

'Yes, breast pain or tenderness can be another symptom of the perimenopause and menopause. Generally breast pain in women can be divided into two camps, cyclical (whereby breast tenderness can be related to a women’s cycle and breasts can get more tender before a period and less so towards the end of your cycle) and non-cyclical (where breast pain is attributed to a cause other than menstruation).'

What happens to your breasts during menopause?

'Some women can find that breast tenderness is a symptom of perimenopause – or worsens during it – as there can be more significant fluctuations between the levels of hormones in a women’s body at this time (mainly oestrogen and progesterone).

'But, as with many things in medicine, it is not an exact science, so not all women will experience breast tenderness as part of their perimenopause and menopause and not all breast pain in menopausal women is caused by menopause only.'

What's the best way to treat menopause breast pain?

'The best way to treat breast pain in menopause varies from person to person. First of all, if you have doubts about the type of pain you are experiencing, I would book in with your GP who can take a full history and examination and refer you onto a specialist as required.

'It is so important to know what’s normal for you, which will be helped by regular self- examination. Read Red's guide here. This helps you know when to manage symptoms at home and when to ask for help.'

How do I treat menopause breast pain at home?

'Getting a supportive, well fitting bra can sometimes be the first step in combatting breast pain (and a good excuse to get some new underwear!). Simple treatments – like taking over the counter medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen or topical anti-inflammatory gels which are available in most pharmacies to rub into the breasts directly – can also really help.'

Why do my breasts hurt after menopause?

'Interestingly, some medications used in the treatment of menopause including HRT, contraceptive pills and even some anti-depressants can contribute to breast tenderness as well.

'It is always important to speak to your doctor before stopping any medications, but it can be helpful to know this could be something to explore with your GP if you are continuing to experience breast pain in menopause. As with anything, if you are struggling to control the pain – or you have any other symptoms you are concerned about – you should always book in to see your GP who will be happy to look into this further with you.'

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