Natural Menopause Remedies and Menopause Treaments

A great many women suffer from breast pain, the majority cyclically around the first two weeks before menstruation. Though breast pain generally disappears during menopause, it can still be problematical during peri-menopause, particularly when estrogen levels are dominant,

While the cause has not been determined exactly, cyclical breast pain has a strong hormonal association; most breast discomfort occurs in the second part of the menstrual cycle, and medications that are effective against it commonly interrupt the hormonal events during the premenstrual time period. Also, the fact that it disappears with menopause points towards a hormonal connection.

Women who have large breasts are more likely to suffer pain, not only in their breasts but also in their necks, shoulders and backs.

Taking up a new sport or leisure pastime can sometimes result in breast pain.

Cyclic breast pain

Cyclic breast pain usually involves both breasts. The entire breast may be affected as well as the underarm area. Noncyclic breast pain tends to occur more often in one breast and may be more centrally located in the breast.

Diet

Because hormone levels have a lot to do with breast tenderness, a diet that helps to balance hormones may help to reduce discomfort. Such a diet is one in which fat makes up less than 20 percent of the total calorie intake. It also needs to contain an adequate amount of the B vitamins, foods containing omega-3 fatty acids and soya products.

Linseed acts as an anti-estrogen on breast tissue, so including it in the diet will also be helpful. Additionally, supplemental vitamin E (400-800 units per day), has been shown to be effective in reducing breast pain.

Stopping, or at least cutting back, on caffeine in coffee, tea and chocolate during the premenstrual period can be very effective in lessening pain. Breast pain may be related to fatty acid imbalance within the cells, which can make breast tissue more sensitive to circulating hormones.

Taking evening primrose oil, which contains gamma-linolenic acid, a type of fatty acid, may help to normalize fatty acid content in the tissues of women who are particularly likely to suffer from cyclic breast pain.

Blackcurrant seed oil is rich in essential fatty acids. These are converted to prostaglandins to fight infection and help to reduce breast tenderness.

Hormones

Oral contraceptives can be helpful, though breast tenderness usually increases during the first few cycles, as is the case with HRT. In fact, as many as 30 percent of women taking hormone therapy experience breast tenderness when they first start their medication.

Ways Of Easing Breast Discomfort

• Wear a supportive bra and make sure it has been properly fitted by a professional.
• During exercise, wear a sports bra, and when your breasts are particularly painful, wear it while sleeping.
• Simple pain relievers such as paracetamol and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents such as ibuprofen may be effective.
• Apply hot or cold compresses.