Fibrocystic breast condition
("lumpy breasts")

What is fibrocystic breast condition?

About half of all women have naturally "lumpy" breasts. That is, they have round, firm, rubbery lumps in both breasts. These lumps usually aren't painful, but in the week or so before each period, they may become tender or painful.

This used to be called a "disease" but now most experts consider the condition a variation of normal breasts, not a disease. The condition and its symptoms are more common in women in their thirties or forties—not so much in teens.

But one word of caution: Since fibrocystic breast condition doesn't increase the risk of breast cancer, some women may say, "Oh, my breasts are so lumpy, there's no point in examining them each month." WRONG! You should examine your breasts every month—just after each period. You'll become familiar with the areas of your breasts that are often thicker and lumpier. If anything feels or looks different, don't panic, but see a doctor. Even strange new lumps aren't usually cancerous so don't panic, but do get professional advice.

How do you treat fibrocystic breast condition?
If cysts cause tenderness or pain, doctors recommend a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug like aspirin or ibuprofen. Occasionally, one "cyst" may cause chronic pain. If this is the case, it can be drained or removed surgically.

How can you avoid fibrocystic breast condition?
Some experts recommend reducing or eliminating caffeine from your diet. So if you drink a lot of coffee, tea, or caffeinated soda drinks like colas, and you have painful breasts—stop for a few weeks, or try the decaffeinated versions, and see if it helps.