Breast pain in children

Overview

Breast pain, also called mastalgia, is discomfort or soreness in one or both breasts. In children, it is usually a normal part of growth and hormone changes.

Yes, breast pain is common in children, particularly around the ages of 8 to 14 when hormonal changes occur.

It can affect both boys and girls, but it is more common in girls as their breasts develop. Boys may also experience temporary breast tenderness due to hormone changes.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Dull ache or soreness in one or both breasts
• Tenderness when touched
• Slight swelling or fullness

Symptoms in children

• Pain that comes and goes with growth spurts or menstrual cycles (in girls)
• Pain that feels like a deep ache
• Breast buds that are tender to the touch (the small lump under the nipple that forms as breasts start to grow)

Causes

Main causes

• Hormonal changes during puberty
• Breast development (thelarche)
• Muscle strain from exercise or sports
• Injury or trauma to the chest area
• Infection (mastitis) – rare in children but possible

Risk factors

• Being in the age range of 8 to 14
• Starting puberty early or late
• Family history of breast pain or breast conditions (rarely)
• Excessive physical activity involving the chest

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If the breast pain is severe and accompanied by fever, redness, or swelling
• If you feel a hard, fixed lump in the breast
• If there is any discharge from the nipple, especially if it is bloody or yellow

Book a routine appointment if:

• If the pain persists for more than a month without improvement
• If the pain is affecting daily activities or sleep
• If you are concerned about the change in your child's breast size or shape

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about the child's symptoms, age, and any recent injuries or changes. They will perform a gentle physical exam of the chest and breasts.

Tests that may be done

• Physical examination
• Sometimes an ultrasound to look at the breast tissue if a lump is felt
• Blood tests if an infection or hormone imbalance is suspected (rarely)

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will usually reassure you that breast pain is normal in children. They may recommend a follow-up if the pain continues or if new symptoms appear. No special preparation is needed.

Treatment

Most breast pain in children does not require treatment. It usually goes away on its own as hormone levels settle. If needed, simple home measures can help relieve discomfort.

Self-care at home

• Wearing a well-fitted, supportive bra or a soft cotton top
• Applying a warm compress or ice pack to the sore area for a few minutes
• Taking over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen – always follow the dose instructions for children
• Avoiding excessive pressure on the chest from heavy backpacks or tight clothing

Medical treatments

If an infection is suspected, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics. If the pain is linked to a hormone imbalance, very rarely, medications to adjust hormones may be discussed. Always follow the doctor's advice and do not give any medications without consulting a healthcare provider.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is almost never needed for breast pain in children. In extremely rare cases, if a lump is found to be something that needs removal, the doctor will explain the options. This is very uncommon.

Living with this condition

Breast pain in children usually does not cause long-term problems. It may come and go during puberty. Encourage your child to talk about any discomfort and reassure them that it is a normal part of growing up.

Lifestyle tips

• Encourage regular physical activity but with proper support
• Avoid tight clothing or bras that are too small
• Teach your child to be aware of changes in their body and to speak up if something feels different

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is good for overall health. There is no specific diet to prevent breast pain. Staying active is fine but ensure the child wears appropriate support during sports.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Breast pain can cause worry in children, especially if they don't understand why it happens. It may also cause self-consciousness. Talk to your child openly and let them know it is common and temporary. If anxiety persists, consider speaking to a school counsellor or your doctor.

Prevention

Breast pain related to puberty cannot be prevented because it is a normal part of development. However, avoiding injuries to the breast area and wearing proper support during sports may help.

Vaccines

There are no vaccines for breast pain.

Screening programmes

Routine breast cancer screening is not recommended for children. If there is a family history of certain conditions, the doctor may suggest monitoring, but that is very rare.

Complications

If left untreated

• If an infection is not treated, it could spread and cause more pain or fever
• Very rarely, an untreated lump could be something that needs medical attention, but this is extremely uncommon in children

Long-term outlook

The outlook for children with breast pain is excellent. Almost all cases resolve on their own as the child grows. Serious conditions are extremely rare. With proper care and reassurance, most children continue their normal activities without any issues.

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