THEBreast pain in the days before menstruation is one of the most frequent concerns among women, especially when it appears suddenly or seems more intense than usual. In most cases, however, it is a physiological response to the hormonal variations of the menstrual cycle. The gynecologist Monica Calcagni explains why the breasts can become more sensitive before the period, when there is no reason to worry and which signs, however, deserve further investigation.
Is it normal to have sore breasts before your period?
It is a very common condition and is called cyclic mastodynia. linked to hormonal variations in the premenstrual phase, in particular to the action of estrogen and progesterone, which directly influence breast tissue.
In the second part of the cycle, after ovulation, the breasts respond to these hormones by becoming richer in liquids and more sensitive. For this reason it may appear swollen, tense, “heavier” to the touch or even painful. Some women describe a widespread feeling of discomfort, others a real tension that increases in the days preceding menstruation and then resolves spontaneously with the arrival of the period.
A physiological response of the body
It is, therefore, a physiological response: the body is preparing for a possible pregnancy, even if this does not happen. It is not a sign of illness, but of hormonal activity.
When there’s nothing to worry about
If the pain is mild, bilateral (i.e. it affects both breasts) and follows a cyclical pattern – it appears before the period and disappears after – it is not a cause for concern. It is simply part of your “hormonal signature”.
Small tips that can help
It may be useful, in these cases, to adopt small measures: wear a more supportive bra on the most sensitive days, reduce caffeine and salt if you notice a worsening, maintain a regular lifestyle.
Physical activity can also help improve the perception of discomfort.
When it is appropriate to delve deeper
However, it becomes important to delve deeper when the pain is very intense, persistent, localized in a specific point, does not vary with the cycle or appears suddenly for no apparent reason.
In these cases, a gynecological or breast evaluation is always advisable to exclude other causes.
Knowing your body helps you live it better
Here too the body is not “causing problems”: it is reacting to hormonal changes. Understanding them, recognizing them and knowing when they are physiological and when they deserve attention is the best way to experience your body with more serenity and awareness.
Doctor Monica Calcagni
Doctor Monica Calcagni
I’m there Doctor Monica Calcagni, Surgeon specializing in Gynecology and Obstetrics. For over twenty years I have accompanied women in every phase of their lives with competence, listening and passion. I graduated with honors fromUniversity of Rome “Tor Vergata”where I also obtained a specialization in Obstetrics and Gynecology with honors and a II level Master’s degree in Aesthetic Medicine, as well as various specialist certifications.
In my job I deal with everything related to gynecological health: from prevention to contraception, from pregnancy to birth assistance, up to obstetric and gynecological ultrasound. I’m a non-objecting doctor and I have always been committed to protection of women’s health and rights.
Alongside my clinical activity, I also carry out my educational activity, with scientific publications and three books aimed at the general public. I have written three books: My journey alongside women (Maggioli Editore, 2025), More woman, less break (Sperling&Kupfer, 2024) e Women’s things (Sperling&Kupfer, 2022).
For info and contacts call 3397247140-3737375627
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