Fibrocystic breasts

Fibrocystic breast changes are common, with up to 80% of women experiencing symptoms at some point in their life.

Fibrocystic breasts are harmless. They're not a disease, just a common change in breast tissue that a lot of women experience.

Symptoms

• Pain or discomfort in both breasts that may come and go with your period, but may last through the whole month

• Breasts that feel full, swollen, or heavy

• Pain or discomfort under the arms

• Breast lumps that change in size with the menstrual period

Exams and Tests If you are over 40, you should have a mammogram to screen for breast cancer. For women under 35, a breast ultrasound may be used to look more closely at breast tissue. You may need further tests if a lump was found during a breast exam or your mammogram result was abnormal.

How Are Fibrocystic Breasts Treated?

• Evening primrose oil. This supplement may reduce breast pain. One study found EPO, used for 6 months, resulted in reduced breast pain. It can be bought from health stores, pharmacies, and online. If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant, Don't take Evening Primrose oil.

• Vitamin E: In one study, the use of Vitamin E for 6 months reduced breast pain. In another study, Vitamin E reduced breast pain with a dose of 200 IU twice daily.

• Decrease the fat in your diet: which may decrease breast pain or discomfort associated with fibrocystic breasts.

• Use a heating pad or warm water bottle to relieve your discomfort.

• Diclofenac sodium 1% gel (Voltaren Arthritis Pain) - available as an OTC arthritis medication; this can be used on the breast to provide pain relief.

• Adjust birth control pills. If you take birth control pills, skipping the pill-free week or switching birth control methods may help with breast pain symptoms.

• Wear a well-fitting bra or sports bra