Fibrocystic Breast Disease

Causes, Treatment and Self-help Remedies for Benign Breast Lumps

May 20, 2009

Fibrocystic breast disease (benign lumps in the breasts) are very common and linked to hormonal changes. This article looks at symptoms, causes and treatment options.

Fibrocystic changes are a very common cause of breast lumps in premenopausal women, affecting around 60% of women according to the US National Institutes of Health. They usually affect women aged 30-50 and are rare in postmenopausal women and those who take combined oral contraceptives. They can make your breasts feel sore, tender and lumpy, typically in the run up to your period.

They are benign and not harmful, which makes breast ‘changes’ a preferable term to breast ‘disease’. The exact cause isn't known although they are linked to hormonal changes in the body prior to menstruation, which cause the breast tissue, ducts and blood vessels to enlarge and retain fluid. This usually subsides once your period starts.

The breast is a combination of glands, which produce milk during lactation, nerves, blood vessels, lymph, subcutaneous fat beneath the skin, and fibrous tissue, which acts as a ‘net’ to keep things together. Think of them as ‘active’ parts of the body that respond quickly to hormonal fluctuations.

What Do Breast Lumps Feel Like?

You may feel overall tenderness to the breast or notice that part of it feels harder or thicker. You may notice a change in the texture of the skin or nipple area. Typically any lumpiness will be in the upper areas of the breast towards your pectorals and armpits. They may ache, feel heavier than usual or be very sensitive to touch. This can come and go or be ongoing. Symptoms can range from mild and irritating to distressing.

Treatment for Breast Lumps

Fibrocystic changes are benign and usually disappear naturally once your hormone levels equalise - your period starts or when you reach the menopause. However, if you’ve found a lumpy area and are feeling anxious it’s best to see your GP for a health check to put your mind at rest.

Tests to check your breast health include a mammogram (overall breast x-ray), an ultrasound for a closer look, or a biopsy, which is when a fine needle is used to check the tissues.

Self-help Techniques

There are several things you can do at home to help ease discomfort prior to menstruation: -

Self-massage – this can help to drain any fluid. It’s also a good way of familiarizing yourself with your breasts and how they look and feel normally so that you can spot any changes. A qualified aromatherapist can advise on suitable oils to use.
A warm bath will aid circulation and blood flow.
Cutting back on caffeine and saturated fats. A high fat diet encourages oestrogen production, which is linked to breast tenderness.
Vitamins A, B and E and Evening Primrose Oil may be helpful in some cases.
Wearing a well-fitting, supportive bra to hold your breasts in place properly so that they aren’t putting strain on your back.

Finding lumps in your breast can be distressing and the immediate instinct is to panic. However, in most cases lumps are benign and linked to hormonal production. Your GP or local Well Woman Clinic can offer further advice. Here's how to do a self-examination of your breasts.

This article is for general information purposes only. Consult your health practitioner for specific guidance on a health issue.

The copyright of the article Fibrocystic Breast Disease in Breast Health is owned by Nicci Talbot. Permission to republish Fibrocystic Breast Disease in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.