Fibrocystic Breasts

You may notice the following symptoms if you have fibrocystic breast changes:

• Breast tenderness or pain, usually toward the outer and upper part.
• Lumpy, rope-like cysts in your breast or near your armpit. The lumps may get larger before your period and then return to their typical size.
• Swollen or full-feeling breasts.
• Brownish nipple discharge (not bloody).

For some women, the symptoms feel more intense just before their period starts. For others, the symptoms tend to stay about the same throughout their menstrual cycle. Still, others have very mild or unnoticeable symptoms. Fibrocystic breast changes can affect one breast or both breasts, too.

How do fibrocystic breasts feel?

Lumpiness is the most common way to describe fibrocystic breast changes. Other ways to describe fibrocystic breasts may be rubbery, ropey (like there is a rope under your skin) or uneven. The lumps tend to be firm but can range in size. For example, some lumps can be the size of a raisin while others feel more like a grape. The lumps are also movable, so you can feel them move under your skin when you push them.

There aren’t any serious complications to fibrocystic breasts. These changes occur regularly and often coincide with hormonal fluctuations. There aren’t any studies that show fibrocystic breast changes increase your risk for cancer or contribute to breast cancer. The only correlation is that it might be harder to spot precancerous or worrisome breast tissue in fibrocystic breasts.

How are fibrocystic breasts treated?

Most women don’t need treatment for fibrocystic breast changes. You can manage your pain at home and take steps to feel more comfortable. Some ideas to help you feel better are:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium.
• Apply warm or cool compresses to your breasts when they become painful.
• Wear comfortable and supportive bras, especially when symptoms are worse.
• Avoid certain activities, like contact sports or running.
• Avoid foods and beverages high in caffeine and fat, as these may trigger uncomfortable symptoms in some women. (Studies haven’t proven that avoiding these foods will help.)

If your symptoms are predictable and follow your menstrual cycle, your healthcare provider may prescribe birth control pills to regulate hormone levels.

Vitamin E and evening primrose oil supplements may reduce breast pain in some women with fibrocystic breasts, but these treatment methods haven’t been fully studied. Talk to your healthcare provider before experimenting with supplements for breast pain.

What is the outlook for fibrocystic breast changes?

Having fibrocystic breasts doesn’t change your lifespan or quality of life. In most cases, they aren’t a cause for concern. Most women find they can manage symptoms at home.

These types of breast changes alone don’t increase your risk of breast cancer. But it’s always a good idea to be sure that any breast changes aren’t cancerous or a sign of a serious health problem. Your healthcare provider is the best person to tell you if breast changes are concerning or normal. Be sure to visit your provider regularly and discuss your breast cancer risk. They’ll let you know how frequently you should be getting mammograms to check on your breast health.

Can I prevent fibrocystic breasts?

Fibrocystic breast changes are normal and common. You can’t prevent it, but you can take steps to manage the symptoms it causes.

When should I see my healthcare provider?

Any changes in your breasts should be brought to the attention of a healthcare provider to rule out serious issues. Contact them if you notice:

• Any new or growing lumps on your breast or armpit
• Nipple discharge or flat and inverted nipples
• Changes to the texture of your skin like dimpling (orange peel texture) or flaking
• Breast pain that doesn’t go away after your period ends