When suffering from mastalgia, start by going for a full breast check up, which would include an examination by your doctor followed by an ultrasound or mammogram to detect any hidden problems.

Recurrent mastalgia for 2 - 3 weeks every month indicates a hormonal imbalance, similar to mastalgia often experienced as an early sign of perimenopause for women in their 40’s. Breasts are made of glandular tissue, which swells with the accumulation of fluid when influenced by hormones. During pregnancy, this results in the manufacturing of milk. During other states of hormonal flux the result is pain.
 
Mastalgia of a cyclical nature can be aggravated by foods and by certain medications. Caffeine (coffee, teas and chocolate) causes increased swelling of breast tissue, as does a diet high in salt. There is evidence that fatty foods and diary products contribute to breast pain.

The most common medications to blame are birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, and occasionally antidepressants and others. Stress is a major contributor to mastalgia due to the link between hormone secretion and our emotions. To wear a bra or not, is a more personal choice and not necessarily linked to this condition.

Treatments for mastalgia include the use of topical applications as well as natural supplements and medication in more resistant cases. Reduce or avoid the foods implicated, while adding Vitamin E and Evening Primrose oil. Exercise and stress reduction, dealing with any unresolved issues, including the fear of cancer is very important to get rid of mastalgia. Topical applications of iodine has shown to be beneficial and safe as well as the application of anti-inflammatory creams which may be effective for the treatment of mastalgia.