One of the biggest fears among women today is developing breast cancer. However, breast cysts and breast cancer are not the same. Here we will learn what types of cysts exist and what measures to take if you find any lumps or cysts during a self-exam or a gynecological exam with your doctor.
There are many urban legends spreading on the Internet and elsewhere that mention a direct link between breast cysts and breast cancer. This is not true. However, it is true that the development of breast cysts should ideally be monitored, minimized, or suppressed, for which there are certain rules and behaviors we must strictly practice. This is because, although there is no common direct relationship between breast cysts and breast cancer, some studies show cysts are more likely to develop in women who have never had children, women with irregular menstrual cycles, or patients with a family history of breast cancer.
What is a breast cyst?
A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac in the breast. It is generally a well-defined, usually small size lump, about the size of a chickpea or smaller, and contains liquid. There is no specific time when they occur; they can even appear in very young girls, especially during developmental phases, typically between ages 10 and 12. These are the most common type of cyst, although some cysts contain solid material.
There are other types of breast lumps called fibroadenomas. Usually painless and symptomless, they are discovered as a hard, mobile lump on palpation. They may feel smooth or slightly rough, especially when moving freely between fingers (like a chickpea that rolls). These are also benign. They result from excessive proliferation of breast tissue and, although sometimes confused with cysts, are different. Fibroadenomas are more common before menopause and usually occur during puberty and young adulthood, related to hormonal changes at those ages.
Treatment for cysts mainly involves patient monitoring of their breasts. Surgery is usually not necessary, but if removal is desired, simple cysts can be aspirated with a needle, and complex cysts may require biopsy and surgery.
Causes of breast cysts
Breast cysts can have many causes
Due to the breast’s anatomical structure, ducts often become blocked, causing fluid accumulation and cyst formation. Solitary cysts may have a genetic origin, but this is uncommon. The most common cause is benign changes in breast tissue (mastopathy), typically starting around menopause. These can result from hormonal imbalances during the cycle and fibrocystic changes (common, benign spontaneous changes). This is very common in healthy breasts and considered a normal variation.
It is important to understand breasts are generally affected by women’s hormonal changes. Self-exams should be done before or after the menstrual period, as cyst size often changes with hormonal phases. It is best to check at the same time each month. Diets high in xanthines (coffee, tea, chocolate, seafood, cola drinks) may predispose cyst development. Obesity is a risk factor that increases incidence of both benign and malignant cysts. Lack of breastfeeding also predisposes women to cysts—those who have never had children are more affected. Another factor increasing cysts is the onset of menopause.
A diet low in fruits and vegetables increases cyst risk
Additionally, drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are risk factors for breast cancer but not for cyst formation. There are many myths about cyst causes and prevention, such as mammograms damaging breasts, frequent bumps causing cancer, aspiration spreading cysts or cancer, or contraceptives promoting cysts. These are all myths; the real causes are quite different.
Natural habits and remedies to prevent cyst formation or growth
Much can be done to prevent cysts, breast pain, and even breast cancer. Early diagnosis, a healthy diet, and self-awareness are very helpful.
If a cyst is found during routine breast exams, it is advisable to consult a doctor. If it is fluid or semi-solid with no other negative signs like blood, it is a simple cyst in 98% of cases. These do not turn malignant or are dangerous. In this case, contents can be aspirated and factors that aggravate or trigger cysts should be avoided.
Reduce refined fats and carbohydrates. Breast tissue is sensitive to high-fat (especially saturated and trans fats) and carbohydrate diets that increase estrogen levels. Excess estrogen production stimulates breast tissue, causing pain, cyst formation, and increased risk of breast and gynecological cancers. For this reason, reducing body fat is important if overweight.
Helpful foods
- Consumption of plant-based fiber (especially whole grains and fruits) helps eliminate excess estrogen. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and turnips contain indole-3-carbinol, which reduces estrogen’s ability to bind breast tissue. It is recommended to consume at least 2 servings per week, ideally daily. Extracts from broccoli sprouts or cruciferous vegetables can also be taken.
- Soy derivatives like tofu, miso, and tempeh are promoted for their plant phytoestrogens, though studies show mixed results. Avoid genetically modified soy and check labels carefully.
- A diet rich in whole foods and low in animal fats is the best ally.
- Eliminate dairy products; it is recommended to remove dairy, especially milk, from the daily diet. Although dairy is a delicacy in many cuisines, try to reduce or choose organic dairy from hormone- and medication-free cows. Try this for a month and observe benefits.
- Eliminate caffeine and chocolate; stop consuming caffeine-containing products like coffee, tea, cola drinks, chocolate, and non-alcoholic beer. These contain methylxanthines that can overstimulate breast tissue in some women. While giving up chocolate may be hard, if you have breast pain or cysts, try avoiding it for a full menstrual cycle and see the effects.
Dietary supplements
- Evening primrose oil and borage oil, rich in omega-6 fatty acid (gamma-linolenic acid, GLA), often relieve breast sensitivity by reducing inflammation, similar to omega-3 found in fish oil (beware of heavy metals), flaxseed oil, sesame oil, and walnut oil. Some studies suggest omega-3 intake protects against breast cancer.
- Moringa oil is rich in omega-9, omega-6, and omega-3 and is a major natural antioxidant source.
- Taking vitamin and mineral supplements, especially vitamin E, vitamin A, Coenzyme Q10, and selenium, is beneficial.
- Iodine reduces estrogen’s ability to bind breast receptors, decreasing breast pain. The best source is in food, such as wakame or kombu seaweed. Excess iodine is not recommended for women with thyroid issues, especially hyperthyroidism.
- Green tea extract (Camellia sinensis), about 200 mg daily, has been shown in studies to help reduce breast cancer risk and recurrence.
- Salvestrols, found in fruits like mandarin, grape, blueberry, and blackberry, are recommended in supplements with adequate concentrations.
- Propolis inhibits aromatase enzyme activity, important in reducing excess estrogen production.
Other advice
- Avoid underwire bras: Underwire bras may restrict blood and lymph circulation in the breasts and surrounding tissues. While replacing them can be difficult, try to wear them fewer hours daily.
- Castor oil and clay: Apply castor oil compresses on breasts to reduce pain and inflammation. Leave on for one hour, three times a week for 2-3 months. For maintenance, once a week is good.
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