Cause: Unknown, but possibly associated with ovarian hormonal changes.

Useful Supplements: Evening Primrose Oil, Progesterone, Vitamin B6, Vitamin E.

Further information: Fibrocystic breast condition causes the formation of non-tumorous lumps in the breast tissue. More than half of all women experience this at some point during their menstrual lifetime; few cases ever occur once menopause sets in.
Family history appears to play a part in a woman’s propensity for fibrocystic breast condition, as does menstrual cycle. Most women will find that these lumps will grow and shrink based on where they are in their monthly cycle.
Two dietary factors have a great influence on this condition: dietary fat and caffeine. Both of these have been found to make fibrocystic breast condition more severe. If both are completely avoided, may women will find that their cysts will shrink or even disappear.
Fibrocystic breasts are often painful, and usually worst right before menstruation begins.
Whenever a new lump appears in the breast, it should be examined by a health care provider. In most cases, fibrocystic lumps can be ignored. However, if they are extremely large or uncomfortable, and do not respond to dietary changes, they may need to be removed. Contrary to common belief, the occurrence of fibrocystic breast lumps does NOT increase a woman’s likelihood of developing breast cancer.

The following herbs and supplements may be effective in treating and preventing fibrocystic breast condition:

Evening Primrose Oil is helpful in regulating estrogen levels in the body. This may help slow the growth of breast lumps.

Progesterone supplements may also help prevent the growth of fibrocystic breast tissue.¹

Vitamin B6 is an effective anti-inflammatory and pain relief agent that may be helpful in the treatment of fibrocystic breasts.

Vitamin E can also help relieve and shrink fibrocystic breast lumps.

References:

¹Lee. Natural progesterone: 41, Sebastopol, Calif.: BLL Pub, 1993.