Going through menopause can be stressful for most women. Knowing what to expect from your body will help you to navigate your way through menopause. Some of these changes may happen in your breasts. It is important to be aware of these changes to know what's normal and to catch any problems, like breast cancer or other serious diseases.
Approaching Menopause
As you approach menopause, your hormone levels are going to be changing frequently. As a result, your breasts may feel more tender, dense or lumpy than usual.
Aging-Related Breast Problems
Common breast problems in aging women include intraductal papilloma, a wartlike growth on the nipple, and mammary duct ectasia, a swollen and clogged duct beneath the nipple. Both are treatable by a doctor.
Breast Tenderness
For women who have been dealing with breast tenderness during their periods throughout their lives, menopause may bring relief. Many women find that menstrual breast tenderness goes away once they stop having periods. In addition, women's breast tissue becomes less dense.
Mammograms
Women in menopause as well as any woman older than age 40 should have a yearly mammogram. This is the best way to screen for early signs of breast cancer.
Talk to Your Doctor
If you experience any unusual breast health problems, talk to your doctor immediately.
Tags: breast cancer, breast tenderness, these changes, through menopause, your breasts
