Painful Armpit Lump Before Menstruation: What You Need to Know

There is a lump in the armpit that is painful before menstruation?

Hello doctor, around April of this year, a few days before my menstrual period, I noticed a lump about the size of a five-dollar coin in the hair-bearing area of my armpit, which is painful to the touch but not hard.
Initially, I thought it might be related to my upcoming menstruation, but upon reflection, I realized that prior to April, I had never experienced any symptoms of swelling, pain, or growth in my armpits before or after my period; I only had the usual menstrual symptoms—breast tenderness and slight lower abdominal pain.
(I do not use any hair removal products or tools.) I thought the lump would disappear after my period in April, but it has persisted until now in November, although it does not seem to have grown, and its appearance is normal (similar to the surrounding skin in the armpit).
It seems to only start hurting about ten days before my menstrual period.
Is this normal? I have never experienced this before; it just suddenly appeared this year! If I need to go to the hospital, what kind of examinations should I undergo and which department should I consult? Thank you, doctor.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/08

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Anonymous / 26 years old / Female If you need to go to the hospital, what examinations and which department do you recommend? A: It is advisable to consult with a breast surgeon or a general surgeon regarding what examinations to undergo, as this should be determined by the physician you are seeing.
Wishing you good health, Taoyuan Hospital, Dr.
Chen Sih-Rong.

Reply Date: 2021/11/08

More Info

When it comes to the painful lump in your armpit that appears before your menstruation, there are several important factors to consider. First, it’s essential to understand that hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can lead to various physical changes in the body, including breast tenderness and the development of lumps in areas such as the armpits. This is often due to hormonal changes that can cause the lymph nodes in the armpit to swell or become tender.

Understanding the Lump
1. Hormonal Influence: The lump you’re experiencing may be related to hormonal changes associated with your menstrual cycle. Many women experience breast tenderness and swelling in response to hormonal fluctuations, and similar changes can occur in the lymph nodes in the armpit. The timing of your symptoms, appearing about ten days before your period, aligns with the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle when estrogen and progesterone levels are elevated.

2. Lymphadenopathy: The lump could be a swollen lymph node, which can occur due to various reasons, including infections, inflammation, or even benign conditions. If the lump is painful and tender, it may indicate that your body is responding to an infection or inflammation in the area.

3. Absence of Previous Symptoms: Since you mentioned that you have not experienced similar symptoms in the past, it is important to monitor any changes. The sudden appearance of a lump can be concerning, especially if it persists beyond your menstrual cycle.

When to Seek Medical Attention
While it’s possible that this lump is benign and related to your menstrual cycle, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional if:
- The lump persists beyond your menstrual cycle without improvement.

- You notice any changes in the size, shape, or consistency of the lump.

- You experience additional symptoms such as fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or significant pain.

- The lump becomes hard or fixed in place, which could indicate a more serious condition.

Recommended Medical Evaluation
If you decide to seek medical attention, it would be advisable to visit a healthcare provider who specializes in women’s health, such as a gynecologist. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend the following tests:
1. Physical Examination: A thorough examination of the lump and surrounding areas to assess its characteristics.

2. Ultrasound: This imaging test can help determine the nature of the lump, whether it is solid or fluid-filled, and provide more information about the surrounding tissues.

3. Blood Tests: These can help assess for any signs of infection or inflammation in your body.

4. Biopsy: If there is any concern about the nature of the lump, a biopsy may be performed to rule out any serious conditions.

Conclusion
In summary, while the lump in your armpit may be related to hormonal changes associated with your menstrual cycle, it’s essential to monitor it closely. If it persists or worsens, seeking medical evaluation is crucial to rule out any underlying conditions. Remember, your health is paramount, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your body.

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