OBJECTIVES: A case-control study was undertaken to examine the association of cyclic mastopathy with premenstrual syndrome and prior breast health.

STUDY DESIGN: A total of 34 women with severe cyclic mastopathy (cases) and 29 women with no significant breast symptoms (controls) prospectively recorded breast pain and swelling and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome during one menstrual cycle. They also provided information on past breast health. The two study groups were compared by use of standard statistical methods.

RESULTS: Women with cyclic mastopathy reported more frequent consultations with physicians for specific breast lumpiness (p = 0.02) or generalized lumpiness (p = 0.004) and for all breast problems (p = 0.0001) and more frequent mammograms (p = 0.04), surgical breast biopsies (p = 0.06), and breast needle aspirations (p = 0.05). Premenstrual symptoms were more severe in women with cyclic mastopathy; this was most pronounced for physical symptoms (water retention and breast symptoms, p < 0.001) but also present for negative affect, behavior change, and impaired concentration (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Women with cyclic mastopathy have a spectrum of breast concerns and they undergo more frequent breast investigations than do women without the disorder. Most symptoms of premenstrual syndrome are also more severe in women with cyclic mastopathy. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1997;176:998-1005.)