All About Breast

Natural Breast Augmentation

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 May 2010 11:01:00 +0000

Natural breast augmentation is a new procedure that transplants fat taken from your own body via liposuction to add volume to the breasts. This fat transfer technique is relatively new and there aren't very many physicians performing this procedure currently. Those who do use it though are confident in its safety and effectiveness.

This procedure is a safe and effective way to enhance the size of the breasts, while simultaneously removing fat where it's not wanted, all without invasive surgery. The best candidate for Natural Breast Enhancement is that person who has lost fullness in her breasts due to age, weight fluctuations or breast feeding, and desires an increase in size and fullness of up to 1 to 2 cup sizes.

The Natural Breast Enhancement procedure with Body-Jet Liposuction, which is also known as Water Assisted Liposuction. It is performed in-office under local anesthesia. Using a fan-shaped nozzle, pulsating water loosens fat cells from connective tissue while vital structures such as blood vessels remain mostly intact. This is performed on a donor area that is rich in fat, such as the hips, thighs, stomach, or buttocks - conveniently, places where fat removal is most desired.

Fat tissue is the most abundant source of adult stem cells, which can develop into other cell types.After harvesting the fat, adult stem cells, which differ from embryonic stem cells, will actually develop into blood vessel cells to aid the body in accepting the transplanted fat. After fat is removed from the donor site, it is carefully placed in the breast using a specialized injection cannula. The use of Body-Jet Liposuction is integral in this procedure because the fat cells from the donor site are extracted intact and can be injected back into the breast. There could be a decrease in what was initially injected due to some fat cells that do not successfully "take" but the injections will typically result in a permanent 150 cc to 250 cc, roughly 1-2 bra cup sizes, overall increase.

This breast augmentation procedure, which includes harvesting the fat from the Body-Jet Liposuction, takes approximately 4-5 hours. In comparison to traditional breast augmentation, there is less swelling and postoperative pain and bruising. Post operation,a support bra be utilized to ensure fat remains in place.

"It is important for the public to know that although there are many myths about this procedure, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons issued a policy paper supporting the safety of Natural Breast Enhancement in March, 2009," says Dr. Robert Langdon. "New techniques have made this procedure a safe and effective alternative for breast enhancement. One popular myth is that most of the fat cells die, making the procedure ineffective; however, new techniques result in 85-90% fat cell survival."

Not for candidates who are looking for a dramatic change in breast size, Natural Breast Enhancement is an excellent option for any woman who is looking to add up to 1-2 cup sizes without artificial implants.

How to Increase Your Breast Milk Supply

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 09:16:00 +0000

There are many ways to increase milk supply, even if the circumstances seem overwhelming or near impossible. The important thing is to nurse as frequently as possible and maintain a dedication and determination to breast feed.

1. Reduce your stress level. Probably the most overlooked factor of any change in the body is the lack of quality relaxation and a stress-free environment. Delegate tasks, put projects to the side until the breast milk supply is back under control. When nursing your baby, do so in a quiet room with no distractions. This is your opportunity to put your feet up for a few minutes and relax. The simple act of relaxing will encourage letdown; and at the same time there is nothing to distract the baby and make him stop nursing before he's actually full.

2. Drink plenty of water. A body that doesn't receive enough fluid intake is going to have a problem producing fluid! Drink at least a gallon of water a day. A good habit is to do this while baby is nursing; so that you do not forget.

3. Massage your breasts often. Babies will naturally knead the breast, triggering letdown. Take the time to massage your breasts while in the shower or bath, periodically throughout the day - such as when you're in the bathroom, and especially while baby is nursing. Even though the letdown may not produce a leaking breast or a spray of milk, it will still occur. This will signal to the breast that the baby is nursing more often, even if in reality he isn't. The breast will increase supply accordingly.

4. Watch your diet. A diet that consists of quick-fix food and loads of caffeine isn't good for mother or baby. As well as needing plenty of fluids, your body also needs lots of nutrients to provide a nutritious meal for your baby. For a quick snack, grab some fruit instead of a candy bar or fast food. For a nutritious, yet time-saving meal, throw something into a crock pot in the morning. At dinnertime the meal will be cooked and ready, without you having to spend time watching over it. Vitamin-rich vegetables, protein-filled meats, and hundreds of different casseroles can be prepared in a crock pot with little or no effort, saving you plenty of time.

6. Use natural herbs. Even major chain department stores now carry various types of herbs in capsule form; freshly ground herbs can be purchased at health food stores and online. Fenugreek is an excellent herb to help increase milk supply. It is an expectorant and has no side effects other than causing your milk to have a maple syrup scent. Milk Thistle is another wonderful supply enhancer, although not quite as effective as Fenugreek. There are also many brand-name teas available, such as Mother's Milk, or Mother's Milk Two for pregnant mothers who are nursing.

Take heart! There are ways to increase your milk supply or even bring back a supply that has completely dried up. Remember that your body grew your baby, and there is no better food than what your body custom-produces for your child. Formula does not provide the antibodies to illness that breast milk does, nor does it change and adjust according to the age and needs of your child like your breast milk does.

With a little effort and determination, you can overcome any breast feeding obstacle and give your child the food that Mother Nature intended!

Treatment of Breast Cancer: Part 3

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 08:47:00 +0000

Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. When chemotherapy is taken by mouth or injected into a vein or muscle, the drugs enter the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells throughout the body (systemic chemotherapy). When chemotherapy is placed directly into the spinal column, an organ, or a body cavity such as the abdomen, the drugs mainly affect cancer cells in those areas (regional chemotherapy). The way the chemotherapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.

Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is a cancer treatment that removes hormones or blocks their action and stops cancer cells from growing. Hormones are substances produced by glands in the body and circulated in the bloodstream. Some hormones can cause certain cancers to grow. If tests show that the cancer cells have places where hormones can attach (receptors), drugs, surgery, or radiation therapy are used to reduce the production of hormones or block them from working. The hormone estrogen, which makes some breast cancers grow, is made mainly by the ovaries. Treatment to stop the ovaries from making estrogen is called ovarian ablation.

Clinical trials for newer treatment
Below are the some new types of treatment that are being tested in clinical trials. Clinical trials are done to find out if new cancer treatments are safe and effective or better than the standard treatment.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy followed by surgery
High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant
Monoclonal antibodies as adjuvant therapy
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors as adjuvant therapy

Many of today's standard treatments for cancer are based on earlier clinical trials. Patients who take part in a clinical trial may receive the standard treatment or be among the first to receive a new treatment. Clinical trials are taking place in many parts of the country. For the new treatment or want to take part in clinical trials, consult with your health care provider.

Treatment of Breast Cancer : Part II Radiation Therapy

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 07:03:00 +0000

Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells or keep them from growing.Radiations often used to destroy any remaining breast cancer cells in the breast, chest wall, or axilla (underarm) area after surgery. Occasionally, radiation therapy is used before surgery to shrink the size of a tumor. Radiation therapy may occasionally be recommended for women to destroy remaining cancer cells after mastectomy (surgical removal of the affected breast) or to shrink tumors in patients with advanced breast cancer.
There are two types of radiation therapy.

External radiation therapy uses a machine outside the body to send radiation toward the cancer.The procedure itself is pain-free. As part of treatment after breast surgery, patients are typically treated with radiation five times per week for at least six weeks in an outpatient clinical setting. Each treatment generally lasts a few minutes; the entire radiation session after machine set-up typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes.Side effects of external beam therapy vary among patients.Temporary side effects of radiation therapy are
* Fatigue
* Neutropenia (reduction in white blood cells)
* Breast swelling or tenderness
* Feeling of heaviness in the breast
* Sunburn-like appearance of the breast skin
* Loss of appetite

Internal radiation therapy uses a radioactive substance sealed in needles, seeds, wires, or catheters that are placed directly into or near the cancer. The way the radiation therapy is given depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.Common side effects of internal radiation therapy include risk of infection and breast swelling.

Treatment of Breast Cancer : Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 10:15:00 +0000

Many women with breast cancer want to take an active part in making decisions about their medical care. It is natural to want to learn all about your disease and treatment choices. Knowing more about breast cancer helps many women cope.Women with breast cancer have many treatment options. These include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and biological therapy. Depend upon the stage of the breast cancer and associate conditions; it will be single or combine therapy.

Surgery

The first line of therapy against breast cancer is the surgery. It may be

Lumpectomy is the removal of only the lump and a small portion of surrounding tissue.

Mastectomy is the removal of all of the breast tissue with or without the muscles under the breast.

Lumpectomy with lymph node removal is the removal of the tumor and small part of surrounding tissue, together with the axillary lymph node, when the biopsy shows that the breast cancer has spread outside the milk duct.

Mastectomy with lymph node removal is the removal of all breast tissue with the associated lymph nodes when biopsy result shows spreading of cancer outside the breast tissue.

Prophylactic mastectomy is preventive removal of the breast to lower the risk of breast cancer in high-risk people.

Prophylactic ovary removal is a preventive surgery that lowers the amount of estrogen which is produced from the ovaries and that stimulates the growth of cancer cells.

Breast reconstruction is the rebuilding of the breast shape after mastectomy and sometimes lumpectomy. Reconstruction can take place at the same time as cancer-removing surgery, or months to years later. The reconstructed breast may be made with the patient’s own (nonbreast) tissue or by using implants filled with saline or silicone gel.

Even if the surgeon removes all the cancer that can be seen at the time of the surgery, some patients may be given radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy after surgery to kill any cancer cells that are left. Treatment given after the surgery, to increase the chances of a cure, is called adjuvant therapy, that include radiation therapy, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy.

Staging of Breast Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 06:53:00 +0000

After breast cancer has been diagnosed, tests are done to find out if cancer cells have spread within the breast or to other parts of the body. The process is called staging. It is important to know the stage in order to plan treatment.

Stage 0 (carcinoma in situ)

There are 2 types of breast carcinoma in situ:

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a noninvasive condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct. The abnormal cells have not spread outside the duct to other tissues in the breast. In some cases, DCIS may become invasive cancer and spread to other tissues, although it is not known at this time how to predict which lesions will become invasive.

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lobules of the breast. This condition seldom becomes invasive cancer; however, having lobular carcinoma in situ in one breast increases the risk of developing breast cancer in either breast.

Stage I

Cancer has formed. The tumor is 2 centimeters or smaller and has not spread outside the breast.

Stage IIA

No tumor is found in the breast, but cancer is found in the axillary lymph nodes (the lymph nodes under the arm); or

The tumor is 2 centimeters or smaller and has spread to the axillary lymph nodes; or

The tumor is larger than 2 centimeters but not larger than 5 centimeters and has not spread to the axillary lymph nodes.

Stage IIB

The tumor is larger than 2 centimeters but not larger than 5 centimeters and has spread to the axillary lymph nodes; or

The tumor is larger than 5 centimeters but has not spread to the axillary lymph nodes.

Stage IIIA

No tumor is found in the breast. Cancer is found in axillary lymph nodes that are attached to each other or to other structures, or cancer may be found in lymph nodes near the breastbone; or

The tumor is 2 centimeters or smaller. Cancer has spread to axillary lymph nodes that are attached to each other or to other structures, or cancer may have spread to lymph nodes near the breastbone; or

The tumor is larger than 2 centimeters but not larger than 5 centimeters. Cancer has spread to axillary lymph nodes that are attached to each other or to other structures, or cancer may have spread to lymph nodes near the breastbone; or

The tumor is larger than 5 centimeters. Cancer has spread to axillary lymph nodes that may be attached to each other or to other structures, or cancer may have spread to lymph nodes near the breastbone.

Stage IIIB

The tumor may be any size and cancer:

The tumor has spread to the chest wall and/or the skin of the breast; and

It may have spread to axillary lymph nodes that may be attached to each other or to other structures, or cancer may have spread to lymph nodes near the breastbone.

Cancer that has spread to the skin of the breast is inflammatory breast cancer.

Stage IIIC

There may be no sign of cancer in the breast or the tumor may be any size and may have spread to the chest wall and/or the skin of the breast. Also, cancer has spread to lymph nodes above or below the collarbone; and may have spread to axillary lymph nodes or to lymph nodes near the breastbone.

Stage IIIC breast cancer is divided into operable and inoperable stage IIIC.

Operable stage IIIC,

The cancer is found in ten or more axillary lymph nodes; or

It is found in lymph nodes below the collarbone; or

It is found in axillary lymph nodes and in lymph nodes near the breastbone.

Inoperable stage IIIC

The cancer has spread to the lymph nodes above the collarbone.

Stage IV

The cancer has spread to other organs of the body, most often the bones, lungs, liver, or brain.

Spreading of Breast Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 09:17:00 +0000

The three ways that cancer spreads in the body are:

Through tissue: Cancer cells reach the surrounding normal tissue.

Through the lymph system: Cancer cells are carried by the lymphatic vessels and reaching the other part of the body.

Through the blood: Veins and capillaries carry cancer cells to other part of the body.

When cancer cells break away from the primary (original) tumor and travel through the lymph or blood to other places in the body, another (secondary) tumor may form. This process is called metastasis. The secondary (metastatic) tumor is the same type of cancer as the primary tumor. For example, if breast cancer spreads to the lungs, the cancer cells in the lungs are actually breast cancer cells. The disease is metastatic breast cancer, not lungs cancer.

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 05:39:00 +0000

Overview
Your doctor or health care provider might ask you to do the following diagnosis tests, when he saw changes in your mammogram or suspicious finding of breast cancer on his clinical examination. The following testes are for diagnosis of breast cancer.

Diagnostic Mammogram
An x-ray of the breast.

Biopsy
The removal of cells or tissues so they can be viewed under a microscope by a pathologist to check for signs of cancer. If a lump in the breast is found, the doctor may need to remove a small piece of the lump. Four types of biopsies are as follows:

Excisional biopsy: The removal of an entire lump of tumor.
Incisional biopsy: The removal of part of a lump or a sample of tissue.
Core biopsy: The removal of tissue using a wide bore needle.
Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy: The removal of tissue or fluid, using a thin needle.
Estrogen and progesterone receptor test
A test to measure the amount of estrogen and progesterone (hormones) receptors in cancer tissue. If cancer is found in the breast, tissue from the tumor is checked in the laboratory to find out whether estrogen and progesterone could affect the way cancer grows. The test results show whether hormone therapy may stop the cancer from growing.

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
A procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body. This procedure is also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI).

Screening Methods For Breast Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:26:00 +0000

It is important to do screening for breast cancer before there are symptoms. Screening can help doctors to find and treat the disease before it make advance. Treatment is more likely to do well when cancer is found early.

The following are the screening tests for breast cancer:

Screening mammogram (X’ray breast)
Clinical breast examination

Screening mammogram

A screening mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to detect breast changes in women who have no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. It usually involves two x-rays of each breast. Mammograms make it possible to detect tumors that cannot be felt. Mammograms can also find tiny deposits of calcium in the breast that sometimes indicate the presence of breast cancer. Women age 40 and older should have mammograms every 1 to 2 years. And those who are at higher than average risk of breast cancer should have mammograms before age 40. Diagnostic mammography is used to evaluate a patient with abnormal clinical findings—such as a breast lump or lumps—that have been found by the woman or her doctor. Diagnostic mammography may also be done after an abnormal screening mammography in order to evaluate the area of concern on the screening exam.

Breast Self-Exam (BSE)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 06:19:00 +0000

Overview
A woman can notice changes by being aware of how her breasts normally by looking and feeling her breasts for changes. The best time for a woman to examine her breasts is when the breasts are not tender or swollen. Women who examine their breasts should have their technique reviewed during their periodic health exams by their health care professional. Women with breast implants can do BSE. It may be helpful to have the surgeon help identify the edges of the implant so that you know what you are feeling. And those who are pregnant or breast-feeding can also choose to examine their breasts regularly. Download Breast Self Examination Chart (BSE)

Do it yourself monthly breast self-exam

Stand before a mirror. Inspect both breasts for anything unusual, such as any discharge from the nipples, puckering, dimpling, or scaling of the skin.

The next two steps are designed to emphasize any change in the shape or contour of your breasts. You should be able to feel your chest muscles tighten while doing these steps.

Watching closely in the mirror, clasp hands behind your head and press hands forward.
Next, press hands firmly on hips and bow slightly toward your mirror as you pull your shoulders and elbows forward.

Some women do steps 4 and 5 in the shower. Fingers glide over soapy skin, making it easy to concentrate on the texture underneath.

Raise your left arm. Use three or four fingers of your right hand to explore your left breast filmy, carefully, and thoroughly. Beginning at the outer edge, press the flat part of your fingers in small circles, moving the circles slowly around the breast. Gradually work toward the nipples. Be sure to cover the entire breast. Pay special attention to the area between the breast and armpit, including the armpit itself. Feel for any unusual lump or mass under the skin. Repeat the exam on your right breast.
Gently squeeze each nipple and look for a discharge.
Steps 4 and 5 should be repeated lying down. Lie flat on your back, right arm over your head and a pillow or folded towel under your left shoulder. This position flattens the breast and makes it easier to examine. Use the same circular motion described earlier. Repeat on your right breast.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 06:00:00 +0000

Overview

Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer in women and the second most common cause of cancer death in women in the U.S. While the majority of new breast cancers are diagnosed as a result of an abnormality seen on a mammogram, a lump or change in consistency of the breast tissue can also be a warning sign of the disease. The term “breast cancer” refers to a malignant tumor that has developed from cells in the breast. Usually breast cancer either begins in the cells of the lobules, which are the milk-producing glands, or the ducts, the passages that drain milk from the lobules to the nipple. Less commonly, breast cancer can begin in the stromal tissues, which include the fatty and fibrous connective tissues of the breast.

Risk factors for breast cancer

No one knows the exact causes of breast cancer. Doctors often cannot explain why one woman develops breast cancer and another does not. Research has shown that women with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop breast cancer. A risk factor is something that may increase the chance of developing a disease.

Age: Most cases of breast cancer occur in women over 60. This disease is not common before menopause. The chance goes up as a woman gets older.

Race: Breast cancer is diagnosed more often in white women than Latina, Asian, or African American women.

Personal history: A woman who had breast cancer in one breast has an increased risk of getting cancer in her other breast.

Family history: A woman's risk of breast cancer is higher if her mother, sister, or daughter had breast cancer. The risk is higher if her family member got breast cancer before age 40. Having other relatives with breast cancer (in either her mother's or father's family) may also increase a woman's risk.

Obesity: The chance of getting breast cancer after menopause is higher in women who are overweight or obese.

Physical exercise: Women who are physically inactive throughout life may have an increased risk of breast cancer. Being active may help reduce risk by preventing weight gain and obesity.

Drinking alcohol: Studies suggest that the more alcohol a woman drinks, the greater her risk of breast cancer.

Reproductive and menstrual history: The older a woman is when she has her first child, the greater her chance of breast cancer. Women who had their first menstrual period before age 12 are at an increased risk of breast cancer. Women who went through menopause after age 55 are at an increased risk of breast cancer. Women who never had children are at an increased risk of breast cancer. Women who take menopausal hormone therapy with estrogen plus progestin after menopause also appear to have an increased risk of breast cancer. But studies have shown no link between abortion or miscarriage and breast cancer.

Certain breast changes: atypical hyperplasia and lobular carcinoma in situ [LCIS] increases the risk of breast cancer.

Gene changes: Changes in certain genes include BRCA1, BRCA2, and others increases the risk. Tests can sometimes show the presence of specific gene changes in families with many women who have had breast cancer.

Radiation therapy to the chest: Women who had radiation therapy to the chest (including breasts) before age 30 are at an increased risk of breast cancer.

Breast density: Older women whose breast x-rays show more dense tissue are at increased risk of breast cancer.

Medication: Women who took DES (diethylstilbestrol) during pregnancy may have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer.

Diseases of Breast

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 05:06:00 +0000

Overview

Don’t panic, when your find a lump or discharge on your breast self exam (BSE), chances are it is harmless, the breast tissue changes with the release of hormones during the menstrual cycle and lumps can come and go. If at any stage a lump is found, do not try and squeeze it or interfere with it in any way. Consult with your doctor or health care providerwho will carry out a professional examination and make a referral to a specialist if necessary who will probably want to perform more detailed tests. Below are the some breasts condition rather than the breast cancer.

Benign breast disease

Mastitis (Inflammation of Breast)

Mastitis is an infection most often seen in women who are breast-feeding. A duct may become blocked, allowing milk to pool, causing inflammation, and setting the stage for infection by bacteria. Bacteria can also enter via cracked nipples. The breast appears red and feels warm, tender and lumpy. In its earlier stages, mastitis can be cured by antibiotics.If a pus-containing abscess forms, it will need to be drained or surgically removed.

Breast cysts

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs. They occur most often in women ages 35 to 50, and they often enlarge and become tender and painful just before the menstrual period. They are usually found in both breasts. Some cysts are so small they cannot be felt on your BSE. Cysts often show up clearly on ultrasound. Although a cyst is not cancer, it's important when you find it on your BSE, you should better consult with your doctor.

Fat necrosis

Fat necrosis is the name given to painless, round, and firm lumps formed by damaged and disintegrating fatty tissues typically occurs in obese women with very large breasts. It often develops in response to trauma, such as a bruise or blow to the breast, even though the woman may not remember the specific injury. Sometimes the skin around the lumps looks red or bruised.

Fibroadenomas (Breast Mouse)

Fibroadenomas are solid and round benign tumors that are made up of both fibrous tissue and glandular tissues. Usually, these lumps are painless and found by the woman herself. They feel rubbery and can easily be moved around (Breast Mouse). Fibroadenomas are the most common type of tumors in women in their late teens and early twenties, although fibroadenomas do not become malignant, they can enlarge with pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Sclerosing adenosis

It is a benign condition involving the excessive growth of tissues in the breast's lobules. It frequently causes breast pain. It can be difficult to distinguish from cancer. When you notice you have to increase your cup size frequently without any reason, you should consult with your doctor.

Galactorrhea (Milk Discharge)

Galactorrhea occurs when your breast produces milk even though you are not breastfeeding a baby. Milk come out when the breasts are touched, or it may start spontaneously. Men can have galactorrhea, too, but it is much less common. It can be due to hormonal imbalance, medications such as hormones, antidepressants, or blood pressure medicines, pregnancy, pituitary tumor, and a number of other causes. The condition can go away on its own. Again, however, it is essential to check with your health care provider.

Hyperplasia/atypical hyperplasia

It is the microscopic changes of the breast tissue, higher risk of developing breast cancer. These changes feature excessive cell growth, or hyperplasia. An early diagnosis of atypical hyperplasia may decrease the breast cancer risk. If a biopsy finds hyperplasia, surgery can remove the abnormal cells, and also determine if in situ or invasive cancer is also present. Since atypical hyperplasia increases your risk of developing breast cancer, it is essential that you continue to monitor your breasts with regular mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Intraductal papilloma

It is a small, wart-like growth that projects into breast ducts near the nipple. It is the most common causes of a bloody or sticky discharge. Any slight bump or bruise in the area of the nipple can cause the papilloma to bleed. Single intraductal papillomas usually affect women nearing menopause. Multiple intraductal papillomas, in contrast, are more common in younger women.

Mammary duct ectasia

Mammary duct ectasia is a disease of women nearing menopause. Ducts beneath the nipple become inflamed and can become blocked. Mammary duct ectasia can become painful, and it can produce a thick and sticky discharge that is gray to green in color. If you notice any pain or discharge should see your doctor.

Breast cancer

Breastfeeding In Public

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 05:56:00 +0000

Breastfeeding is a right every mother has but sometimes you would think this was not the case. In the United States and around the word, there continue to be unfortunate situations in which nursing mothers are told they cannot breastfeed in public. Often times, nursing mothers are wrongly asked to retreat to a more private place in order to breastfed. Breastfeeding is now being actively promoted by the health profession However, there does seem to be a paradox when it comes to breastfeeding in public. On the one hand you are told to breastfeed but, on the other, you are not exactly encouraged to breastfeed when and wherever you want. Things are changing, slowly. It is up to mothers to continue this change in attitude.

The following tips will help show you how best to nurse in public and help build your confidence.

Choose a right nursing bra with loose top, you can even slip baby underneath so that no unbuttoning is necessary and your breasts remain covered up during feeding. Start with breastfeeding your baby in the privacy of your home before you brave the public. Then you could start breastfeeding in front of your family members. If they have a problem with you, explain that breastfeeding is not a disease or socially unacceptable habit and you have the right to feed the baby whenever or whatever they need.

Later you could try in public places, where there aren’t too many people, e.g., a park; .Feeding when there’s no one around is a good start. Bring your partner of friend with you. They can provide support and by talking to them as you breastfeeding you’ll even forget that you’re in public. When you noticed someone staring at you, the trick is to return their gaze; don’t back down. They’ll always look away and move on. Don’t feel uncomfortable, you have the right.

In Colorado, for example, one mother was told by a staff member at a public pool that she would have to go to the restroom to nurse her baby. Knowing her rights, the mother staged a "nurse in" as she and other nursing mothers gathered at the pool and discreetly breastfed their children. Sure enough, it turned out the nursing mother had every right to breastfeed her child at the public pool. She was later offered an apology by the pool staff.

Advantages of Exclusive Breastfeeding

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 04:32:00 +0000

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding until six months of age, with solids being introduced at this age. Breastfeeding is recommended for at least twelve months and can continue as long as mother and child wish.

Advantages for Baby

Breast milk contains antibodies that help babies fight off infection such as middle ear infections and other respiratory problems including meningitis and bronchitis.
It is also found to reduce the incidence and intensity of atopic diseases.
Babies who breastfeed also tend to suffer from colds less frequently and they have fewer incidents of colic.
Reduced risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Breast milk protects children from food allergies.
Contains nutrients such as vitamins and minerals plus enzyme that aid in digestion and prevents diarrhea.
High protein content in breast milk help the development of the brain and may led to higher IQ, of baby.

Advantages for Mother

Breast milk is for free so that saves you so much money in formula milk spending.
It helps mother lose weight and go back to their original size before pregnancy.
Breastfeeding strengthens the bond between mother and child.
Breast feeding is also known to prevent post-natal depression.
It is very convenient as it is readily available.
Breastfeeding helps the uterus go back to its original size. It lowers the risk of developing pre-menopausal breast and ovarian cancer for mothers.

Breastfeeding

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:48:00 +0000

overview

For hundreds of thousands of years, humans, like all other mammals, fed their young milk. Before the twentieth century, alternatives to breastfeeding were rare. Attempts in 15th century Europe to use cow or goat milk were not very positive. In the 18th century, flour or cereal mixed with broth was introduced as substitutes for breastfeeding, but this did not have a favorable outcome, either. True commercial infant formulas appeared on the market in the mid 19th Century but their use did not become widespread until after WWII. As the superior qualities of breast milk became better-established in medical literature, breastfeeding rates have increased and countries have enacted measures to protect the rights of infants and mothers to breastfeed.

Breast feeding method

Breastfeeding can start as soon as the baby is born assuming there are no complications or problems with the mother or the infant. The first thing that the baby will be feeding on is thick yellowish milk called colostrum. This comes in small amounts that might let the mother think the infant is not getting enough nutrients but rest assured that it is all the baby needs. Colostrum is high in carbohydrates, protein, and antibodies and low in fat. Newborns have very small digestive systems, and colostrum delivers its nutrients in a very concentrated low-volume form. It’s enough for the newborn.

Breast feeding positions

The more common and well known method is holding your baby to your breast in a cradle like position, making sure to support the baby's head. This is the idyllic way to breast feed, however many mothers will explain that it is not always the most practical, especially when you're exhausted, your arms ache and you have been sitting in the same position for two hours!

So another position to try would be with you lying on your side and your baby lying on his/her side also. You might want to use additional support such as a pillow to protect the baby's head. This is probably one of the best breast feeding techniques as it there is little strain on any part of the body. This is particularly useful during the twilight feed.

Physiology of Breast

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 07:22:00 +0000

Overview

A woman’s breasts are rarely balanced (symmetrical). Usually, one breast is slightly larger or smaller, higher or lower, or shaped differently than the other. The nipple can be flat, round, or cylindrical in shape. The color of the nipple is determined by the thinness and pigmentation of its skin. In some women, the nipples are constantly erect. In others, they will only become erect when stimulated by cold or touch. When the nipple is stimulated, the muscle fibers will contract, the areola will pucker, and the nipples become hard. Inverted nipples are not a cause for concern unless the condition is a new change. Breast shape and appearance undergo a number of changes as a woman ages. In young women, the breast skin stretches and expands as the breasts grow, creating a rounded appearance. Young women tend to have denser breasts (more glandular tissue) than older women.

Breast changes during menstruation

The mature premenopausal breast undergoes cyclic changes, which may increase breast size by up to 10-15% during the late luteal phase, bringing on mild breast tenderness, swelling, pain, and/or lumpiness in 60% of healthy women and moderate to severe symptoms in another 10%. An effect of estrogen is to increase cellular proliferation, and progesterone potentiates this effect. As a result, cell populations increase during the follicular phase of the cycle and expand further during the luteal phase. Breast tissue is slightly denser on the mammogram during the luteal phase of the cycle.

Breast changes during Pregnancy
General

Marked ductal, lobular, and alveolar growth occur due to the influence of luteal and placental sex steroids, placental lactogen, prolactin, and chorionic gonadotropin. Prolactin increases slowly during the first half of pregnancy. The two-cell layer of the alveoli sheds to a single layer (this contributes to the high protein content of colostrum).

The First 3-4 Weeks

Ductal elongation occurs, with some branching, and lobular formation. Breast pain is frequently the first symptom of pregnancy, often occurring before a woman notices that she has missed her cycle.

Weeks 5-8 of Gestation

Significant breast enlargement occurs, along with dilation of superficial veins, heaviness, and increased pigmentation of the nipple-areolar complex.

Second Trimester

Lobular formation predominates. Alveoli contain colostrum, but no fat. Lactation may be adequate from the 16th week of pregnancy.

Third Trimester

Breast size continues to increase due to increasing colostrum volume and hypertrophy of myoepithelial cells, connective tissue, and fat.

Breast changes after Menopause

Declining ovarian function results in loss of the sex hormones, causes a variety of symptoms in many women including hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, vaginal dryness and difficulty sleeping. During this time, the breasts also undergo change. For some women, the breasts become more tender and lumpy, sometimes forming cysts (accumulated packets of fluid) .Lobules are resorbed. Ducts also are resorbed, but to a much lesser extent. Because the breasts become less dense after menopause, it is often easier for radiologists to detect breast cancer on an older woman’s mammogram films, since abnormalities are not hidden by breast density. Over decades of menopause, nipples may flatten or retract. This normal change should occur gradually and bilaterally, as opposed to unilaterally and over 1-2 years, which would raise a concern for a subareolar breast cancer.

Anatomy of Breast

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 07:13:00 +0000

Gross Anatomy

Each breast has 15 to 20 sections, called lobes, each with many smaller lobules. The lobules end in dozens of tiny bulbs that can produce milk. Lobes, lobules and bulbs are all linked by thin tubes called ducts. These ducts lead to the nipple, which is centered in a dark area of breast skin called the areola. The areola also has oil-producing glands that secrete a lubricant to make breastfeeding easier. The spaces between the lobules and ducts are filled with fat. There are no muscles in the breast, but muscles lie under each breast and cover the ribs.

Breast Parenchyma and Support Structures

The breast is made up of both fatty tissue and glandular milk-producing tissues. The ratio of fatty versus glandular tissue varies among individuals. In addition, with the onset of menopause (ie, decrease in estrogen levels), the relative amount of fatty tissue increases as the glandular tissue diminishes. The soft tissues of the breast are supported by the suspensory ligaments of Cooper. These ligaments run throughout the breast tissue parenchyma from the deep fascia beneath the breast and attach to the dermis of the skin and they allow for the natural motion of the breast.

Blood Supply

Blood supply of the breast skin depends on the subdermal plexus, which is in communication with underlying deeper vessels supplying the breast parenchyma.

The blood supply is derived from

Perforating branches of the internal mammary artery
Lateral thoracic artery
Thoracodorsal artery
Intercostal artery perforators
Thoracoacromial artery

This rich blood supply allows for a variety of reduction techniques, ensuring the viability of the skin flaps after surgery.

Nerve Supply

Sensory innervation of the breast is dermatomal in nature. It is mainly derived from the anterolateral and anteromedial branches of thoracic intercostal nerves T3-T5. Supraclavicular nerves from the lower fibers of the cervical plexus also provide innervation to the upper and lateral portions of the breast. Researchers believe sensation to the nipple derives from the lateral cutaneous branch of T4.

Muscle Related To The Breast

The breast lies over the muscles that encase the chest wall. These are pectoralis major, serratus anterior, external oblique, and rectus abdominus fascia. The blood supply that provides circulation to these muscles then perforates through to the breast parenchyma, thus also supplying blood to the breast. By maintaining continuity with the underlying musculature, the breast tissue remains richly perfused, thus preventing complications arising from aesthetic or reconstructive surgery requiring the placement of a breast implant.

Pectoralis major

The pectoralis major muscle extends from its origin on the medial clavicle and lateral sternum to its insertion on the humerus. The action of the pectoralis major is to flex, adduct, and rotate the arm medially. The pectoralis major is extremely important in both aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgery, since it provides muscle coverage from the breast implant.

Serratus anterior

The serratus anterior muscle is a broad muscle that runs along the anterolateral chest wall. Its origin is the outer surface of the upper borders of the first through eighth ribs and its insertion is on the deep surface of the scapula. To completely cover the implant with muscle in reconstructive surgery, often the serratus anterior must be elevated sharply to obtain a sufficient muscle layer to provide coverage.

Rectus abdominus

The rectus abdominus muscle provides the inferior border to the breast. It is an elongated muscle that runs from its origin at the crest of the pubis and interpubic ligament to its insertion at the xiphoid process and cartilages of the fifth through seventh ribs. It acts to compress the abdomen and flex the spine. When placing an implant for breast reconstruction, in attempting to achieve complete coverage with muscle, the rectus fascia must often be elevated to place the implant sufficiently inferior. This dense thick fascia is often intimately adherent to the ribs below it.

External oblique

The external oblique muscle is a broad muscle that runs along the anterolateral abdomen and chest wall. It abuts the breast on the inferior lateral aspect. It elevated along with the rectus abdominus fascia to provide inferior coverage of the breast implant during reconstructive surgery.