Natural breast enhancement: Do supplements work?

Answer Section

Breast enhancement supplements aren't likely to work and might have side effects.

Many supplements are marketed as natural means of breast enlargement. Breast enhancement supplements typically contain a variety of herbs, such as saw palmetto and wild yam. Supplement manufacturers often discuss the potential benefits of plant-derived substances known as phytoestrogens on breast health. However, it's not clear that phytoestrogens enhance breast growth.

Serious drug interactions are possible with many supplements, especially if you take a blood-thinning medication such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).

Breast enlargement might be a side effect of certain prescription drugs — such as hormone therapy (estrogen), birth control pills and certain antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. However, the components of these medications aren't found in over-the-counter breast enhancement supplements.

If you're interested in breast enhancement, talk to your doctor about more-effective options — such as breast implants.