Breast cysts continue to grow after menopause

Breast cysts may still grow after menopause. This is because although the hormone levels in the body have changed, the sensitivity of local tissues to estrogen, the characteristics of the cysts themselves, or other external factors may still cause cysts to form or increase in size.

The main causes of breast cysts include hormone level fluctuations, mammary duct blockage, and fibrocystic breast disease. After menopause, although the estrogen level in the body drops significantly, the ratio of estrogen to progesterone in some women is unbalanced, and the sensitivity of breast tissue still exists, which may cause the cyst to continue to grow. Weight gain or an increase in fat tissue in the body can also increase the level of exogenous estrogen, thereby stimulating breast cells. At the same time, physiological aging may cause the elasticity of breast tissue to decrease, the discharge of ductal secretions to be blocked, and cysts to form. When benign breast lesions develop seriously, they may also manifest as a gradual enlargement of the cyst. If it is an external factor, such as excessive intake of hormone-containing foods in the diet, long-term excessive mental stress, etc., it will also indirectly lead to the growth of breast cysts, which indicates that a comprehensive analysis of the causes is needed.

The main causes of breast cysts include hormone level fluctuations, mammary duct blockage, and fibrocystic breast disease. After menopause, although the estrogen level in the body drops significantly, the ratio of estrogen to progesterone in some women is unbalanced, and the sensitivity of breast tissue still exists, which may cause the cyst to continue to grow. Weight gain or an increase in fat tissue in the body can also increase the level of exogenous estrogen, thereby stimulating breast cells. At the same time, physiological aging may cause the elasticity of breast tissue to decrease, the discharge of ductal secretions to be blocked, and cysts to form. When benign breast lesions develop seriously, they may also manifest as a gradual enlargement of the cyst. If it is an external factor, such as excessive intake of hormone-containing foods in the diet, long-term excessive mental stress, etc., it will also indirectly lead to the growth of breast cysts, which indicates that a comprehensive analysis of the causes is needed.

Postmenopausal women who discover breast cysts growing need to respond proactively. Regular breast ultrasound or mammography is recommended to assess the nature of the cyst. If the cyst shows no signs of malignancy, it can be alleviated through observation and lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding a high-fat, high-sugar diet, eating more fiber-rich foods, and maintaining a regular schedule to reduce estrogen interference. If the cyst is large and accompanied by discomfort, fine needle aspiration may be considered to remove the fluid; if it recurs or causes doubt, a cystectomy may be performed to clarify the pathological nature. Medication can be taken as prescribed by the doctor, such as the prolactin inhibitor Daan or anti-estrogen drugs. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible when breast swelling and pain occur or cysts grow rapidly.