If you feel a lump in your breast, do not panic. Most lumps are not breast cancer, but something less serious, like a benign breast condition. (Learn more about benign breast conditions.) And, some lumps will go away on their own. Often they are related to your menstrual period and will go away by the end of your cycle. However, it is best to see your health care provider just to be sure.
Many women may find that their breasts feel lumpy. Breast tissue naturally has a bumpy texture. And, one woman’s breasts may feel different from another’s. For some women, the lumpiness is more pronounced than for others. In most cases, this lumpiness is no cause to worry. If the lumpiness can be felt throughout the breast and feels like your other breast, then it is probably just normal breast tissue. Lumps that feel harder or different from the rest of the breast tissue (or the tissue of the other breast) or that feel like a change are a concern. When this type of lump is found, there is more risk that it may be breast cancer. Some benign breast conditions though (such as cysts and fibroadenomas) can cause similar changes. (Learn more about benign breast conditions.) See your health care provider right away if:
- You find a new lump or change that feels different from the rest of your breast.
- You find a new lump or change that feels different from your other breast.
- Feel something that is different from what you felt before.
If you are unsure whether you should have a lump checked, it is best to see your provider right away. Although a lump may be nothing to worry about, you will have the peace of mind that it has been checked.
You may notice other changes in your breasts, such as a change in the size or the shape of the breast, pain, nipple changes or discharge or a new look or feel to the skin on the breast. Pain is rarely related to breast cancer and may be related to your menstrual cycle. If it does not go away, don’t ignore it. See your health care provider. If you notice any of the warning signs of breast cancer listed below, see your health care provider right away.
- Lump, hard knot or thickening
- Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening
- Change in the size or shape of the breast
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin
- Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
- Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
- Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
- New pain in one spot that doesn’t go away
Adapted from National Cancer Institute [39-40], American Cancer Society [41], and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [42].
Learn more about the warning signs of breast cancer.
Learn more about benign breast conditions.
Learn more about breast cancer diagnosis.
Updated 02/24/10
