Hi to all:
A quick response to posting about fibrocystic breasts. My personal
experience, as a woman with fibrocystic breast disease, is a complete
cessation of symptoms for the entire duration of breastfeeding. This was 3
yrs 4 mos, 2 years 4 mos, currently 16 mos. In fact, since baby #1 weaned 2
mos before baby#2  was born, I actually had no symptoms till baby #2 weaned.
However, within 1 menstrual cycle of second weaning symptoms returned.
Question: in visiting my ENT today we discussed an abnormality in one of my
eustachian tubes that produces amplification of internal noises (blood
rushing, breathing, chewing, etc...) This condition is caused by the tube not
closing when it should. Anyway, he states that Estrogen taken orally will
improve this situation (BC pills). He theorized that perhaps being a
lactating mom was creating the problem. Being a wonderful doc and knowing me
well, he said nothing implying weaning as necessary. Has anyone else heard of
this before? Just curious. Also, any connection between repeat infections of
the parotid gland and bf? I recall reading that salivary glands and breast
tissue are of similar construct. Some of my clients have reported salivating
with strong letdowns (myself included). Thanks for any information anyone
might have concerning my questions!
Jennifer   MEd, WIC peer counselor