Also known as fibroadenosis

The connective tissues (stroma), ducts and lobules of the breast respond to the female sex hormones (oestrogen and progesterone), becoming fibrous (irregular and hard) and cystic (fluid-filled). These changes fluctuate with the menstrual cycle.

It is benign, can vary in severity and affect patients QOL if severe.

It is common in women of menstruating age. Symptoms often occur prior to menstruating (within 10 days) and resolve once menstruation begins. Symptoms usually improve or resolve after menopause.

PC

Symptoms can affect different areas of the breast, or both breasts, with:

• Lumpiness
• Breast pain or tenderness (mastalgia)
• Fluctuation of breast size

Management

To exclude breast cancer and Sx management. Options to manage cyclical pain:

• Wearing a supportive bra
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen
• Avoiding caffeine is commonly recommended
• Applying heat to the area
• Hormonal treatments (e.g., danazol and tamoxifen) under specialist guidance