Breast Health Concerns at 48: A Pre-Menopause Discussion

Question
Hi Angie!

I'm not sure what info is pertinent, so I'll try to give you as much as possible without bogging you down too much.  I'm 48 and possibly pre-menopausal.  At age 19, I had breast reduction/lift. I've had two children (they are all grown up now!)and no significant health history.  My maternal sister and aunt had breast cancer, but I have tested negative for the gene mutation for BRCA i and II.  I have mammograms every year with no problems thus far.
I am in great shape, I work out at least 5 times a week.  About a year ago, I amped up my work-out to include bench-pressing.  I noticed a big difference in my pectoralis muscles beneath my breasts; I got a great lift out of the exercise...however, a few months ago, I noticed that I was really "bulking up" and didn't like it.  I backed down, doing less weight and more reps.  I haven't lost any tone, but now, within the last month and a half, my breast size is increasing.  I've gained an entire cup size and my shirts are getting snug...I'm popping out of my bra.

I'm not concerned for my health, I do regular exams...I just can't figure out why the change.  If it is hormonal, will my breasts return to their normal size?  Seriously considering having another reduction, as I've always been more comfortable with smaller breasts.  I am 5'0" and small framed, so the extra size on top makes me feel disproportionate (sp?).

Thanks for any help/advice.

Answer
Hi Lisa- I'm just wondering if I was of any help. I haven't heard back from you.

Angie :)


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HI Lisa -


First I want to say congratulations on working out and staying in shape. I'm in my early 40's and have been running half marathons for the past few years; working out has changed my life. But lets get to you :)

I'm just wondering if your breasts became smaller when you started using the bench press? And are your breasts bigger now then before you started doing more upper body work?

I'm just going to assume that your breasts are larger now then before you started gaining, and then losing, pectoral muscle. The questions I would usually ask are: Has your diet changed at  in anyway? Any different foods that you are eating? Are you taking any different vitamins or supplements? A lot of times the hormones in different foods can make a woman's breasts grow, even at the age of 48.

Please get back to me and let me with your answers to those questions. I am going to do more research on this, and also ask a few people to see what their opinion is.

I was also wondering if you could send me a photo of yourself. This photo would be completely private, but would be beneficial in helping me.

My email is BerganAngie@yahoo.com


Hope to hear from you soon,

Angie