Sensitivity in the breast. Tenderness or pain in the breast or around the underarm can occur for many reasons but it may be a symptom of breast cancer. Usually benign, breast sensitivity or pain is often caused by hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, puberty. Breast tenderness that's part of a normal menstrual cycle is called cyclical breast pain. Breast pain that isn't linked to periods, or non-cyclical breast pain, is less common but is usually still benign and may be caused by having large breasts, prior surgery, or fibrocystic breast tissue. Rarely, breast sensitivity can be a symptom of inflammatory breast cancer. Sensitivity in the breast that is not tied to the menstrual cycle should be checked by a physician as it may be a benign condition that can be treated or breast cancer.
