Breast Pain

I’m having pain in my breast. Do I need an imaging test?

Breast pain is very common.  It is usually not a sign of breast cancer.  If you have pain that comes and goes, or pain in both breasts, you usually do not need an imaging test.

If you have pain in one specific part of one breast, or pain that does not go away, your doctor may recommend an imaging test.

If you are less than 30 years old, ultrasound of the breasts is usually the first test recommended.

If you are 30 years or older, both mammography and ultrasound are usually recommended.

If you have other symptoms with your pain, such as nipple discharge or a lump, you may need additional testing.

If you are having breast pain, talk to your doctor.   Breast pain is common, and usually not a sign of cancer.  Imaging may be recommended for some kinds of pain.