Breast tenderness, or any kind of breast pain, tends to frighten women because we immediately think the big "C" word.  But doctors report that more often than not, it's not cancer, but some other cause such as water retention or benign lumps that enlarge during menses and shrink afterward

Some women don't mind this symptom so much because it creates a 'womanly' feeling that they enjoy. But chronically tender nipples and breasts get old quick when experienced month after month.  Typically there isn't one cure that will get rid of all of the symptoms of sore breasts, but there are many simple and alternative methods that do offer relief over time.

Fibrocystic breasts or that thick and lumpy feeling, are typically a sign of relatively high estrogen and low progesterone levels. Research has shown that progesterone cream can significantly reduce this symptom, as well as other supplementation such as with magnesium, Vitamin E, a high-quality omega 3 and Vitamin B6.  Increasing fiber and eating dark green leafy vegetables can help flush out excess estrogen.  Consider a short fast or detoxification.

Because estrogen may dominate and progesterone not be produced enough during menopause, symptoms such as breast tenderness are exacerbated. Stress seems to be a factor adding to this symptom and exercise can reduce the effects of it.

What are my other options?

Do the Basics

Start with you primary care physician and make sure you've had a mammogram.  For those of you concerned about radiation, have your doctor order thermography.  If you have lumps, you probably need to know that they are benign to obtain peace of mind.

Improve your Diet

Your diet can have a significant impact on breast tenderness. Eliminate caffeine rich foods such as:

• coffee

• colas, and

• black tea

These kind of stimulants have a significant effect on breast tenderness and women report almost immediate relief when they stop using them.  Salt works the same way for other women.

Try Massage

This one probably sound too good to be true, but the truth is massage stimulates the lymphatic system and gets necessary fluids moving throughout your body again.  It's also great for elimination and things like cellulite.

Take Time for Yourself

There's no business like the "self" business.  It's critical that women find time for themselves.  To relax and splurge and just enjoy life.  Take a break often and do something you love!  It's the best therapy around.