Everything You Need to Know About Menopause and Breast Health

Breast Health Awareness

As a woman, you must always be aware of your breast health. Even though there is no direct relation between menopause and breast cancer, age is a risk factor for it. But we have to be aware of this factor, especially during your menopausal phase. Do you want to know why?

A woman's body undergoes many changes during menopause, one of the drastic changes being the decrease in oestrogen production. This hormonal imbalance can affect your breast.

These changes can happen to anyone as a part of ageing. But, it is imperative to be generally aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer as the risk of developing it increases with age, especially after menopause.

Oestrogen Level and Your Risk for Developing Breast Cancer During Menopause

The female hormone, oestrogen, plays a significant role in the growth and development of breast tissue. But during menopause, when oestrogen levels decrease, changes in breast tissues, like an increase in fatty tissues and a decrease in glandular tissues, happen. These changes manifest through breast changes. And as discussed above, these changes make it more challenging to detect breast cancer early.

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

• Appearance of a new lump or lumps in the breast or your underarm.
• Noticeable changes in the structure- size or shape of the breast.
• Discharge from your nipples.
• Skin Dimpling or skin puckering on the breast.
• Colour and texture changes of the skin on the breast.
• Unexpected nipple retraction (nipple turning inward).
• Pain in the breast or underarm.

These are the signs and symptoms that you have to be cautious about. Always remain alarmed of this unwanted guest who can intrude on your life during your challenging phase.

Steps to Maintain Optimal Breast Health

So, what are the steps that you can take to maintain your breast health during menopause:

Self-Examination of Your Breast

The best way to ensure your breast health is to know your breasts and identify any changes. Perform regular breast self-examinations. To perform a breast self-examination:

• Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your side. 
   
• Raise your arms above your head and check for any noticeable changes in the size, shape or colour of your breasts.
   
• Examine with your fingers. Use the pads of your three fingers in the middle and press on every part of your breast and underarm area. Follow circular patterns to ensure that you get all the areas. Increase the pressure slowly as you apply from light to firm. Gently squeeze your nipple to look for any discharge. 
   
• Feel for any lumps or any changes in the texture of your breast.

Clinical Screening

• Ensure that you get regular clinical breast examinations from your doctor.
   
• Getting regular mammograms is a vital part of identifying breast cancer. They are x-rays of breasts that are capable of catching your cancer early. After menopause, a woman should get a mammogram once a year.

By regularly examining your breasts, you can enjoy the second phase of your life without being in constant fear of breast cancer.

Healthy Lifestyle Practices to Take Care of Your Breasts

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for good physical and mental health. It includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and having good and sound sleep.

Balanced Diet

A balanced diet gives your body all the nutrients it needs to function correctly. Especially during menopause, when your body is going through a lot of changes, the role of a balanced diet is crucial. A balanced and wholesome diet includes vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Eating a balanced diet helps to:

• Maintain a healthy optimum weight.
• Minimise your risk of chronic diseases (heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes).
• Enhance your energy levels.
• Improve your mood and cognitive function.

Regular Exercise

If you're looking for one simple way to improve your health, regular exercise is the way to go! Not only does it help you build stronger muscles and bones, but it also works wonders for your cardiovascular health. 

Plus, it's a fantastic way to reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases like cancer. But that's not all! Exercise is a proven mood booster that can help you sleep better and feel good about yourself. As a menopausal woman, keeping yourself healthy and active and reaping the benefits of exercise is essential. 

You can indulge in several activities to lead a healthy lifestyle and take utmost care of your breast health. Here are some tips to help you get started: 

• Follow a balanced and wholesome diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Try to avoid your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
• Find time to prioritise yourself and work out for at least 30 minutes. 
• Ensure you get enough sleep, typically 7-8 hours per night.

By practising healthy lifestyle tips, you can shield yourself from the emperor of malignancies - Cancer.

Conclusion

Prevention is always better than cure. By staying aware, informed, and proactive, women can take control of their breast health and reduce the risks associated with breast cancer. Regular checks, a healthy lifestyle, and seeking professional advice when needed are crucial steps in ensuring optimal breast health during menopause and beyond.

With proper monitoring and a healthy lifestyle, you can ensure a good and healthy menopausal life. Stay healthy and stay responsible for your health.