Frequently Asked Questions - Gynecology

Click on a Question. Feel free to bring you questions to your doctor. ACOG Patient Education
What are my birth control options? What are Fibrocystic Breast Changes?

Important: This information is provided to answer questions concerning fibrocystic breast changes. If you discover a lump in your breast or have a discharge from you nipple you should contact you doctor immediately!

Fibrocystic breast disease is a benign breast condition affecting about 60% of women during their childbearing years, especially ages 30 to 50 that is characterized by your breast becoming lumpy and painful, especially the week before you period.

What causes it? 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 which causes the breasts to feel swollen, lumpy and tender. After menstruation the breasts feel less tender and lumpy.
What is a Colposcopy?
What is Endometriosis?
What are Fibroids?
What are Fibrocystic Breast Changes?
What is Menorrhagia?
What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
What is Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)?
What is a Laparoscopy?
What is a Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP)?
What is Menopause?
Why should I perform a monthly breast exam?
What is Osteoporosis?
What is a PAP Test?
What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?
What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?
What is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
What are Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
What are Thyroid Disorders?
What are Vaginal Infections?

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.

  What are the symptoms?  
 
  • Dense, irregular and bumpy feeling breasts, especially in the outer quadrants.
  • Breast pain that may come and go, or be persistent.
  • Breasts feel heavy, full.
  • Premenstrual pain and swelling.
  • Pain improves after menstrual cycle.
  • Change in nipple sensation, itching.
  What can be done to relieve the symptoms?
 
  • Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, cola, chocolate) for a few months.
  • Take 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.
  What are the 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.

How important are self breast exams? Performing breast self exams monthly are very important because they will help you become aware of how your breasts normally feel 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.

<Back to Top>