Fibrocystic breast changes
Fibrocystic breasts aren’t really a disease; they’re more accurately described as a common condition where your breasts get lumpy and tender just before your period. The condition usually goes away after your period. More than half of all women have fibrocystic breasts at some time but they’re most common in women of childbearing age. Fibrocystic breasts often run in families – you’re more likely to have them if your mother or sisters have them.
Causes of fibrocystic breast changes
Fibrocystic breasts are related to hormone changes that happen during a menstrual cycle. The release of hormones before your period causes the milk glands to enlarge which may make the breasts feel lumpy, swollen and tender.
Symptoms of fibrocystic breast changes
Women with fibrocystic breasts are more likely to have symptoms right before a period. Symptoms, which usually lessen at the end of your period, include:
- Swollen breasts
- Tender or painful breasts
- Lumps or lumpy areas
Diagnosing fibrocystic breast changes
It’s only natural that a new breast lump may immediately turn your thoughts to cancer. But the lumps caused by fibrocystic breast changes are not cancerous and do not lead to cancer. For your good health and peace of mind, you will want to know if a lump indicates a fibrocystic breast change, or something else.
If you notice a new breast lump that doesn’t go away after your period, see your doctor for a breast exam.
If you are no longer having periods (menopause) and notice a new lump, see your doctor right away. Your doctor will do a breast exam and may follow up with a mammogram and/or ultrasound.
Treating fibrocystic breast changes
In most cases, treatment isn’t needed, but there are several things you can do to make yourself more comfortable:
- Take an over-the-counter pain medication
- Ask your doctor about taking low-dose birth control pills
- Ask your doctor what vitamins, minerals, or herbal supplements might help
- Wear a good, supportive bra
- Limit caffeine
- Limit salt
- Eat a low-fat diet
