GYN Doctor serving patients in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk & Portsmouth
A Gynecology Specialists note: Following is an excellent article by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Since 2004, our GYN doctors have provided women with comprehensive Gyn care to include hormone therapy, breast exams, mammography and more in Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and throughout Hampton Roads.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact our GYN Clinic at (757) 312-8221.
Benign Breast Problems and Conditions
March 2019
What is a benign breast condition?
A benign breast condition is one that is not cancer. These problems often go away on their own or are easily treated. Because a few benign breast conditions can increase your risk of getting cancer in the future, you may need to have follow-up tests or exams with your GYN doctor.
What are the different types of benign breast problems?
Benign breast problems include pain, lumps or masses, infections, nipple discharge, and skin changes.
What causes benign breast pain?
There are two types of breast pain: cyclic and noncyclic.
• Cyclic breast pain occurs in response to changes in hormone levels. Your breasts may feel swollen, more sensitive, or painful before your menstrual period. You may have similar symptoms if you use combined hormonal contraception such as birth control pills or hormone therapy for menopause.
• Noncyclic breast pain is not related to the menstrual cycle. It usually occurs in one breast in one specific area. Many things can cause this type of pain, including injury, infection, medications, and large breast size. In rare cases, noncyclic breast pain can be caused by breast cancer.
How is benign breast pain treated?
For cyclic pain, wearing a well-fitted bra and taking pain-relieving medications can help. If you are on combined hormonal birth control, using your method continuously may improve symptoms. If you have noncyclic breast pain, see your Gyn doctor.
What are benign breast lumps or masses?
There are different types of benign breast lumps. In general, benign breast masses are divided into three types:
1. Nonproliferative — This type of mass has normal cells. A common example is a cyst. Cysts are usually small. Another example is a simple fibroadenoma. They may need to be surgically removed if they are large or keep growing.
2. Proliferative without atypia — In this type of breast mass, the cells are increasing in number but are otherwise normal. Having this type of lump slightly increases the risk of future breast cancer over the long term. They usually are surgically removed, but sometimes they can just be watched to make sure they are not growing.
3. Atypical hyperplasia — Hyperplasia is a condition in which cells are increasing in number. Atypia means that the cells do not look normal under a microscope. Atypical hyperplasia greatly increases the risk of developing breast cancer in the future. Surgery to remove the cells and the area around them is recommended, along with close follow-up.
What is mastitis?
Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue. It most commonly happens when a milk duct becomes clogged with milk during breastfeeding and does not drain properly. Your breast will be red, swollen, warm, and painful in one specific area. Mastitis can cause flu-like symptoms, such as fever, aches, and fatigue.
How is mastitis treated?
You may be prescribed an antibiotic to treat the infection. Applying warm compresses can help relieve the pain. It is safe to breastfeed your baby when you have mastitis and are taking an antibiotic.
What are the signs and symptoms of nipple discharge?
Benign discharge tends to occur in both breasts and only when the breast or nipple is squeezed. It is usually milky white or greenish in color. Discharge that is bloody or clear is more concerning.
What causes nipple discharge?
Discharge from the nipple is a common benign breast symptom. During pregnancy, nipple discharge is normal as the breasts get ready to produce milk. In women who are not pregnant, it can be caused by hormonal changes. Some medications can cause nipple discharge. Nipple discharge should be checked by your Gyn doctor.
What skin changes can affect the breasts?
Breast skin can be affected by common skin problems, such as psoriasis and eczema. Yeast infection of the skin folds under the breast is a common condition. Women with large breasts are more likely to have this problem. Some skin changes of the breast raise concern for cancer. These include redness, warmth, dimpling of the skin, and ulcers (small, red, painful blisters). Nipple changes such as crusting, scaling, or a nipple that has changed shape also raise concern. Tell your Gyn doctor about any skin changes that you notice.
How are benign breast conditions evaluated?
If you have breast symptoms, let your Gyn doctor know. You most likely will have a breast exam. In some cases, you may need to have an imaging test of your breast. Breast imaging can be done with mammography, an ultrasound exam, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Imaging may be followed by a biopsy.
What kind of follow-up will I need if I have a benign breast condition?
Most benign breast conditions do not increase your risk of cancer, but some, such as certain types of breast lumps, do. If you have a condition that increases the risk of cancer, more frequent clinical breast exams and imaging tests over the next 1–2 years may be recommended. The recommended course of follow-up is based on your age, health risks, and test results.
What is breast self-awareness?
Being aware of how your breasts normally look and feel is called breast self-awareness. Knowing what is normal for you will help you detect any changes that may signal a problem. If you notice any of the following, contact your Gyn doctor:
• Pain (especially if it is in one place or is getting worse)
If you like these tips, please pass them to your family, friends and colleagues. To subscribe, please click here.
If you have any concerns about your breasts, please contact our GYN Clinic at (757) 312-8221 or by clicking here.
About our GYN doctor and clinic
Our all-female practice covers a wide spectrum of gyn and health issues.
Since 2004 each GYN doctor at Gynecology Specialists has been caring for women and teens in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth. Our services include hormone therapy, breast exams, mammography, and much more.
|
