Fibrocystic Breast Changes

**The information contained here is for educational purposes or to answer questions you may have about fibrocystic breast changes. If you discover a lump in your breast, or have a discharge from a nipple, you should contact your health care provider.

You have noticed your breasts are lumpy and painful, especially the week before your period. You may have been told you have fibrocystic breast disease, but what is that?

First of all, fibrocystic breast disease is not a disease. It is a benign breast condition affecting about 60% of women during their childbearing years, especially ages 30 to 50.

Causes

The breasts are made up of milk producing glands, fat and fibrous tissue. The glands are linked by thin tubes called ducts. Each month in response to estrogen and progesterone released by the ovaries, the milk glands and ducts enlarge and the breasts retain water. The breasts may feel swollen, lumpy and tender. After menstruation the breasts feel less tender and lumpy.

As this hormonal stimulation continues repeatedly, pockets of fluid called cysts may form and there is an increase in the firmness of the breast tissue. The tissue may feel "ropey" on exam. These are fibrocystic changes.

Symptoms

• Dense, irregular and bumpy feeling breasts, especially in the outer quadrants.
• Breast pain that may come and go, or be persistent.
• Breast feel heavy, full.
• Premenstrual pain and swelling.
• Pain improves after menstrual cycle.
• Change in nipple sensation, itching.

Relief of Symptoms

• Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, cola, chocolate) for a few months.
• Over the counter NSAIDS (Advil, Motrin, Aleve, etc.)
• 400 IU of Vitamin E daily in divided doses.
• Decrease salt intake, especially the week before menstruation.
• In severe cases, oral contraceptives can help.

Signs of Problems

• New lump
• Existing lump increases in size or doesn't go away with menstruation.
• A distinct lump, rather than a lumpy area.
• A change in breast size.

Breast Self Exam

Performing breast self exam monthly will help you become aware of what your breasts normally feel like so you can identify a change. Any new lump should be checked by your physician.

The best time to perform the breast self exam is in the first 7 to 10 days after the beginning of your period before the breasts are swelling.

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