It’s easy to get spooked by breast lumps or changes (and rightly so) – so it’s important to be aware of what’s normal for you (and what’s not). If you’re concerned about a change to your breasts, always consult your GP to rule out anything serious.

So, what’s causing our symptoms? Predictably, it’s our hormones.

“Breast tissue is really sensitive to hormonal changes,” advises Dr Diamandis. “In the two weeks before a period (known as the luteal phase), the levels of oestrogen and progesterone rise and fall – this timing will vary a little from one person to another. These hormones increase the size of breast ducts and milk glands as well as lymph nodes causing them to swell. These changes can cause swelling and tenderness just before your period.”

Birth control can exacerbate symptoms

Given that cyclical breast pain is linked to hormones, it’s no surprise that our contraceptive choices can also cause sore, tender boobs.

“Hormonal contraception, HRT, and other hormonal medications such as fertility treatments can also cause breast pain due to the changes in the levels of reproductive hormones that these cause,” says Dr Diamandis. “This of course varies from person to person and not everyone taking birth control experiences breast pain. If you experience breast pain on a hormonal medication, do bear in mind that these changes tend to settle after a few months (and after stopping the medication) but if you experience breast pain it’s always best to consult with your doctor.”

Why are my boobs so sore before my period?