My Breakthrough
Breast pain
Breast pain or discomfort is a very common problem - nearly seven out of ten women will suffer from breast pain at some time in their life.
It may be caused by something simple like wearing the wrong size of bra, which can be easily corrected.
On the other hand, breast pain may be related to the menstrual cycle and changing hormone levels throughout the month. These hormone levels are usually normal but in some women the cells in the breast are more sensitive to the changes. Sometimes this sensitivity is linked to low levels of a fatty acid called gamma linoleic acid (GLA) in the bloodstream.
Relief of breast pain is very important to many women but it's not easy to achieve. Some women have found that the following steps may be helpful in reducing breast pain:
If you're taking a contraceptive pill, your doctor may suggest changing from one brand to another or stopping the pill for a few months to see if there's any change in your symptoms. If you're not taking the pill, your doctor may suggest you start as this may also relieve your discomfort.
Your doctor may ask you to keep a chart to find out if there is a pattern to your pain that clearly links it to your menstrual cycle.
Your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat your breast pain.
If you are worried about continued breast pain and have any questions about taking Evening Primrose oil, you should consult your GP. You are also entitled to ask for a second opinion if you would like one.
On the other hand, breast pain may be related to the menstrual cycle and changing hormone levels throughout the month. These hormone levels are usually normal but in some women the cells in the breast are more sensitive to the changes. Sometimes this sensitivity is linked to low levels of a fatty acid called gamma linoleic acid (GLA) in the bloodstream.
Relief of breast pain is very important to many women but it's not easy to achieve. Some women have found that the following steps may be helpful in reducing breast pain:
- Cutting down on caffeine - tea, coffee, chocolate, cola.
- Reducing your intake of animal fats - meat and dairy products.
- Increasing your intake of fresh fruit and vegetables.
- Taking Evening Primrose or Starflower oil continuously for at least four months. If you haven't noticed any benefit in this time, stop.
- Trying over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen, which is also anti-inflammatory.
- Having your breasts measured to ensure you are wearing a well-fitting bra.
If you're taking a contraceptive pill, your doctor may suggest changing from one brand to another or stopping the pill for a few months to see if there's any change in your symptoms. If you're not taking the pill, your doctor may suggest you start as this may also relieve your discomfort.
Your doctor may ask you to keep a chart to find out if there is a pattern to your pain that clearly links it to your menstrual cycle.
Your doctor may prescribe medicines to treat your breast pain.
If you are worried about continued breast pain and have any questions about taking Evening Primrose oil, you should consult your GP. You are also entitled to ask for a second opinion if you would like one.
Also within "Diagnosis"
