Will breast cysts disappear on their own during lactation?

Breast cysts during lactation usually do not disappear on their own and need to be observed or treated depending on their nature. Breast cysts may be caused by hormone fluctuations, milk stasis or infection. It is important to distinguish between harmless simple cysts and complex cysts that may pose risks. It is recommended to seek professional medical evaluation as soon as possible and formulate appropriate treatment measures based on breast ultrasound and clinical examination results.

1 Causes of Breast Cysts

Breast cysts during lactation are often caused by the following reasons:

Hormone fluctuations: Postpartum changes in hormone levels can cause abnormal reactions in the breast glands, leading to the formation of fluid cysts. These are mostly simple cysts with a low risk of malignant transformation.

Milk stasis: Inadequate milk drainage leads to blockage of the milk ducts, which gradually form milk cysts, sometimes accompanied by lumps and pain. Such cysts need to be treated promptly to avoid the occurrence of mastitis.

Infection or inflammation: If the cyst area is accompanied by fever, redness, swelling and other symptoms, it may be an abscess caused by local infection. Pay attention to whether there is bacterial infection.

When encountering breast cysts, it is necessary to determine whether it is a physiological change or a pathological problem based on the circumstances to ensure that potential risks are detected in a timely manner.

2 Treatments for breast cysts

Observation and follow-up: For asymptomatic, simple small cysts, doctors usually recommend regular breast ultrasound monitoring. If the cyst does not grow larger or show other abnormalities, no special treatment is required.

Milk dredging: If the cyst is caused by milk stasis, hot compresses, massage, frequent breastfeeding, etc. can help dredge the mammary ducts. If necessary, you can ask a professional doctor or breastfeeding nurse to do it.

Puncture aspiration: For larger, continuously enlarging non-infected cysts, fine needle aspiration can be used to aspirate cyst fluid, which can not only relieve symptoms but also clarify the nature of the fluid and help with diagnosis. If there is local inflammation, antibiotic treatment may be required.

Surgery: If the cyst is suspected to be complex or malignant, or if the cyst affects normal breastfeeding and causes significant discomfort, surgical removal of the cystic tissue may be considered. This should be decided after evaluation under the advice of a doctor.

3 Daily prevention and care recommendations

Maintain a balanced breastfeeding rhythm to avoid blocked milk ducts; breastfeed on demand or use a breast pump to empty the milk in time.

Try to change the holding position each time you feed to ensure that all parts of the breast are fully emptied.

Pay attention to breast care to avoid infection caused by milk accumulation, and keep the nipples and breast skin clean.

Maintain a balanced diet, avoid high-fat, high-sugar foods, and appropriately increase the intake of foods rich in trace elements and vitamins such as nuts, fruits, and vegetables.

During lactation, breast cysts may gradually reduce as the body adjusts, but you cannot just expect them to "heal on their own." If breast cysts cause discomfort or pose potential risks, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible and use professional and scientific methods to solve the problem to ensure the health of the mother and baby during lactation.