As women transition through menopause, their bodies undergo profound changes, including shifts in breast tissue and potential risk factors for breast cancer.
Menopause brings a new chapter in a woman’s life, accompanied by many hormonal fluctuations and physical transformations. One such change occurs in the breast tissue, as the decline in estrogen levels leads to decreased breast density and elasticity. These changes may result in a loss of firmness and fullness, as well as increased susceptibility to breast cancer.
Additionally, menopause may bring about an increased risk of developing benign breast conditions, such as fibrocystic changes or benign tumors. While these conditions are typically non-cancerous, they can cause discomfort and require medical attention for proper diagnosis and management.
The Importance of Self-examinations:
Early detection is pivotal in offering women timely intervention and improved outcomes.
I’m all about self-examinations and self breast massage. Both empower women to become familiar with their breast tissue and detect any changes or abnormalities. By performing daily breast massage and monthly breast self-exams, women can identify potential warning signs of breast cancer, such as lumps, skin changes, or nipple discharge, and promptly seek medical attention for further evaluation.
Thermography is a great preventative tool for monitoring breast health. It measures heat patterns and vascular changes in the breast tissue. It is noninvasive and does not emit EMFs like mammograms. Thermography can detect rapid growth which can potentially develop into breast cancer 8-10 years earlier than a mammogram. Thermography shows the function of the breast tissue, whereas mammograms show the structure. Mammograms are not preventative, they are a diagnostic tool. Whereas, thermograms can detect changes that may lead to dis-ease and offer the opportunity for lifestyle changes.
We are fortunate in this area to have KVINNA for full breast ultrasound. Breast ultrasound is also noninvasive and does not emit EMFs to very sensitive breast tissue. KVINNA takes 3,000-5,000 images of the breast depending on breast size. Mammograms misdiagnose or frequently miss altogether cancer in women with dense breast tissue. Dense fibrocystic breasts show white on mammograms. Cancer cells also show up white. White on white = early detection failure.
Prioritize Breast Health:
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Research shows that women who are overweight or obese after menopause face a 30-60 percent higher risk of breast cancer compared to those with a leaner physique. While assessing weight alone isn’t sufficient, calculating your body mass index (BMI) can provide valuable insights. Although BMI has limitations, considering both weight and height offers a more comprehensive understanding of one’s health status.
2. Incorporate Exercise: Regular physical activity has been associated with a 10-20 percent reduction in breast cancer risk. The American Cancer Society recommends aiming for 2.5 hours of moderate exercise per week to mitigate overall cancer risk. Fortunately, exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous or time-consuming; simple habits like opting for the stairs over the elevator or biking short distances instead of driving can contribute to significant health benefits. The key is finding something you love to do so it feels more like fun instead of a “must do!”
3. Moderate Alcohol Consumption: Studies indicate that each daily alcoholic drink is linked to a 7 percent increase in the relative risk of breast cancer. While moderate alcohol intake may be acceptable, it’s advisable to limit consumption to less than one drink per day for women to minimize risk.
4. Castor oil packs. Applying a castor oil pack to the breast tissue helps in multiple ways. It supports healthy circulation and lymphatic drainage of the breasts. This process helps to reduce inflammation, eliminate toxins and increases nutrition for the repair and maintenance of the breast. It is soothing and helps decrease discomfort. You can order breast packs on my resources page. Be sure to use the HEALINGTOUCH10 for a 10% discount!
5. Invest in Proper Fitting Bras: According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 4 out of 5 women wear the wrong bra size. An improper fitting bra can decrease circulation in the breast tissue, trap toxins and cause breast pain. There is a great book called Dressed to Kill: The Link Between Bras and Breast Cancer that goes into more detail. Your bra should feel comfortable and not leave red or deep marks in the skin. Go without a bra as often as possible. Breasts have healthy circulation when they bounce and wobble. When the “girls” are trapped in a bra all day they certainly do not get healthy circulation.
By incorporating these lifestyle adjustments and tips, you can take proactive measures to safeguard your breast health and reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Contact me for Online Lymphatic or Breast Health Consultations to learn more.