Fibrocystic Breast Masses & Menopause
Fibrocystic breast masses are benign changes in the breast tissue. Although it is sometimes referred to as fibrocystic disease, the term is misleading because this condition is so common that many physicians consider it to be normal. Many health care providers refer to fibrocystic breast masses as fibrocystic breast change.
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Considerations
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Fibrocyst breast masses are sometimes referred to as mammary dysplasia, benign breast disease and diffuse cystic mastopathy. They are common in more than half of all women of childbearing age, but rare in women after menopause.
Cause
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There is no consensus on the cause of fibrocyst breast masses, although many experts believe such changes in breast tissue are affected by hormonal fluctuations. Masses tend to peak immediately prior to the menstrual period and subside immediately after.
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Identification
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Fibrocystic breast masses typically appear as dense, bumpy or lumpy tissue which is more noticeable on the upper portion of the breast. There may be some discomfort in one or both breasts which may come and go. There may also be a greenish-brown discharge from the nipples.
Prevention/Solution
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There is no particular treatment for fibrocystic breast masses. Wearing a properly fitted support bra may help provide relief from discomfort. Some experts recommend eliminating certain foods such as chocolate and caffeine in your diet, however there are no definitive studies that indicate this is effective. Birth control pills may be prescribed to decrease symptoms, but most of the time this condition disappears on its own after menopause.
Warning
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Fibrocystic breast masses are not cancerous, nor do they increase your risk of breast cancer. However, these masses are quite unusual in women after menopause, so any lumps or masses discovered in your breast should be reported immediately to your health care provider.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of C.P.Storm
