According to the Mayo Clinic, breast pain--also known as mastalgia--is a common problem that affects seven out of 10 women in their lifetime. While breast pain does not usually signify a serious condition such as breast cancer, it can be uncomfortable and, in some situations, severe.

Treatment

Though breast pain most likely will resolve itself on its own, your doctor might recommend one of a variety of treatments if the condition persists. According to the Mayo Clinic, 10 percent of women with breast pain will experience five days of severe pain each month. Your doctor might recommend a topical cream that is applied directly to the breast to reduce pain or oral medication such as danazol or tamoxifen. Sometimes the hormones in a birth control pill can help control pain. If you already are taking an oral contraceptive, switching the brand also can help relieve breast pain. For postmenopausal women, a reduction in the dosage of hormone replacement therapy can stop breast pain. In some instances, it is as simple as locating the cause of the pain and making an adjustment, such as changing your type of bra.

Home Remedies

Simple home remedies and lifestyle changes can help limit your amount of breast pain. The application of cold and hot compresses directly to the breast can help cut down pain, and cutting caffeine out of your diet potentially can help as well. Though breast pain is usually most intense during the menstrual cycle, keeping a journal can help you determine if your pain is tied to your cycle or related to other factors. According to the Mayo Clinic, cutting down your intake of fat to less than 20 percent daily also can help breast pain by balancing your fatty acid balance. Also, anxiety can make breast pain worse. Learning relaxation techniques will not only quell that anxiety but might reduce pain as well.

Supplements

According to the Mayo Clinic, some vitamin supplements can help cut down the severity of breast pain. One effective supplement is evening primrose oil, which cuts down breast pain by helping balance the fatty acids in your cells. The Mayo Clinic recommends 1,000 mg three times per day, but like any supplement, you should consult with your doctor before taking anything. The Mayo Clinic also recommends vitamin E for breast pain, though not enough conclusive data has been produced on its efficacy.

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Breast Pain