A breast lump is a mass, growth, or swelling within the breast tissue. While finding a lump in your breast can be concerning, it is important to remember that the majority of breast lumps are not breast cancer. There are many conditions that may cause benign (non-cancerous) breast lumps. However, all breast lumps should be investigated by a healthcare professional. 

While breast lumps should be checked and monitored by a healthcare professional, it is important to note that the absence of a noticeable breast lump does not mean breast cancer cannot or has not developed. Beginning at age 40, all women should receive an annual mammogram, and women over the age of 18 should perform a monthly breast self-exam.

What Does a Breast Lump Feel Like?

A breast lump often feels like a solid or thick spot in or around the breast tissue, or in the underarm area. A breast lump will be noticeably more solid than the surrounding breast tissue.

Breast lumps can vary in size, shape, and feel. Some may be the size of a pea, while others may be larger than a golf ball. Breast lumps may feel round, smooth, and moveable, or may be hard, jagged, and stationary. Breast lumps may be present in one or both breasts.

Some breast lumps may cause pain or discomfort, but many do not. A painful breast lump is not necessarily a sign of breast cancer, but should be looked at by a healthcare professional.

Facts About Breast Lumps

Breast lumps are common, and not all breast lumps are cancerous. According to the National Institute of Health, 60-80% of all breast lumps are non-cancerous^[1]. Non-cancerous breast lumps are referred to as “benign”; cancerous breast lumps, or tumors, are referred to as “malignant.”

Breast lumps can form anywhere within breast tissue. Breast tissue extends throughout the breasts and up through the underarm area of both arms, as well as under the breasts toward the rib cage. Men have breast tissue in these areas as well, and can also develop breast lumps. Breast lumps can affect anyone with breast tissue, at any age, from puberty through older age.

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279/

Types of Breast Lumps

There are many types of breast lumps, which may be benign or malignant. While benign breast lumps are more common than malignant lumps, it is important that a healthcare professional investigate all breast lumps if and when you notice one.

Benign Breast Lumps

Benign breast lumps are growths or masses in the breast tissue that are not cancerous. There are many types and causes of benign breast lumps.

Fibroadenomas

Fibroadenomas are the most common type of benign breast lumps that occur primarily in women in their 20s and 30s, but can occur at any age. Fibroadenomas may feel rubbery to the touch and move around freely. They are usually painless, vary in size, and can form anywhere in the breast tissue.

Fibroadenomas are generally not a cause for concern and can be diagnosed through a physical examination, mammogram, or breast ultrasound.

Treatment is usually not required unless the fibroadenoma causes pain or discomfort. In that case, your doctor may recommend it be surgically removed.

Fibrocystic Breasts

Fibrocystic breasts occur in women with dense breast tissue and refers to changes in the breasts that naturally occur due to hormonal fluctuations during a woman’s monthly menstrual cycle. These changes may lead to the breasts feeling lumpy, swollen, and sore right before a woman’s period.

These hormone-related changes should resolve after the cycle. However, if a new breast lump does not go away after a menstrual cycle, it should be checked by a healthcare professional.

Breast Cysts

A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac that grows within the breast tissue. A breast cyst that forms on the surface of the breast may feel like a grape and be soft in texture. A cyst that forms deeper within the breast may feel like a hardened lump because it is covered by tissue.

Breast cysts are most common in premenopausal women ages 35 to 50. A breast cyst may be diagnosed through ultrasound, and treatment is generally not required unless the cyst causes pain or discomfort. In that case, a healthcare professional may recommend draining the cyst with a needle and syringe.

Fat Necrosis

A fat necrosis is a non-cancerous breast lump that may form if the breast has been injured. Breast injury may include a biopsy or surgery. This type of lump forms in the fatty breast tissue of the injured area.

A fat necrosis in the breast can be diagnosed through an ultrasound and does not usually require treatment. In most cases, the body will break the necrosis down over time. But you should see your healthcare provider if the fat necrosis gets bigger or you notice other breast changes.

Lipoma

Lipomas are slow-growing, fatty lumps that form just under the surface of the skin. Some may weigh only a few grams while others can be large enough to produce a visible bulge. Lipomas are soft to the touch and move around freely when touched. Lipomas can be diagnosed through a physical exam, x-ray, mammogram, or ultrasound. They do not usually require treatment, but can be surgically removed if they cause discomfort or your doctor feels it is necessary.

Mastitis

Mastitis is inflammation within the breast tissue caused by an infection. Mastitis causes breast pain, swelling, and redness of the skin. Although mastitis doesn’t present as a true breast lump, symptoms like swelling can often be mistaken for a lump. Mastitis can also cause fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms.

Mastitis usually occurs in women who are breastfeeding, but it can also affect women who are not breastfeeding, as well as men. Mastitis is diagnosed through physical examination and is usually treated with antibiotics.

Breast Abscess

A breast abscess is a fluid collection or pus pocket in the breast. It is most often caused by untreated mastitis. A breast abscess can be very painful and presents as a red, swollen lump in the breast. Pus may drain out of the lump if there is an opening in the skin. Other symptoms include fever and chills.

Abscesses are typically diagnosed through ultrasound and treatment often requires a surgical procedure to drain the fluid, as well as antibiotics.

Milk Cysts

A milk cyst, or galactocele, is a fluid-filled sac that almost exclusively occurs in lactating women. A milk cyst is filled with breastmilk and causes a blockage of the mammary duct.

Milk cysts often resolve on their own once hormones from pregnancy and lactation normalize. However, a milk cyst may be drained by a medical professional if it is painful or uncomfortable.

Intraductal Papilloma

An intraductal papilloma is a wart-like lump that may develop in the milk ducts of the breasts. Intraductal papillomas, most common in women over 40, often form close to the nipple, but can occur elsewhere in the breast as well.

An intraductal papilloma may feel like a small lump and can cause a clear or blood-stained discharge from the nipple. It is diagnosed through clinical exam, ultrasound or mammogram, and sometimes biopsy. Intraductal papillomas are often removed through surgery.

Breast Cancer Lumps

Breast lumps that are cancerous are often referred to as “malignant tumors.” A malignant tumor is a mass of abnormal tissue that contains cancerous cells.

They can range in size and texture, may or may not be painful, and may or may not be felt through the skin. All breast lumps, no matter the size or texture, should be checked by a healthcare professional.

What Do Breast Cancer Lumps Feel Like?

As with benign breast lumps, breast cancer lumps vary in size, shape, and feel. Some may be soft and movable, though it is more common for a breast cancer lump to be hard and stationary to the touch. It may also feel more jagged than smooth.

Although breast lumps are common and many are non-cancerous, there are several breast lump warning signs to be aware of. See your healthcare professional if you notice:

• A new lump, thickening, or swelling of the breast tissue not previously noticed by you or your doctor
• A lump that feels hard to the touch or different from the rest of the breast tissue
• A known lump that begins to grow or change
• A lump that does not go away after menstruation
• A lump that causes pain or discomfort

Can You Have Breast Cancer Without a Lump?

While some breast cancers may produce a noticeable lump or other symptoms, it is important to remember that in its early stages, breast cancer does not produce any noticeable symptoms or signs. This is why practicing early detection methods, such as receiving annual mammograms, annual well-woman visits that include clinical exams, and monthly breast self-exams are critical to diagnosing breast cancer early, when it is most treatable.

Learn more about Breast Cancer Symptoms and Signs.

Need help paying for a mammogram? Learn how our National Mammography Program can help you get the services you need.

Male Breast Lump

Although breast cancer primarily affects women, men also have breast tissue that can develop breast cancer. Male breast cancer is rare and makes up less than 1% of all breast cancer diagnoses.

While rare, men carry a higher breast cancer mortality rate than women due to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

It is not clear what causes male breast cancer, but risk factors include:

• Older age, with male breast cancer usually diagnosed in men in their 60s
• Exposure to estrogen-related drugs, such as those used to treat prostate cancer
• Family history of breast cancer, whether male or female
• Liver disease, such as cirrhosis
• Obesity, which causes higher levels of estrogen in the body
• Testicle disease or surgery
• Klienfelter’s syndrome

Male breast cancer is usually self-detected as a hard lump underneath the nipple and areola. As in women, the lump may or may not be painful. Men should see a healthcare professional immediately if they notice a lump anywhere within the breast tissue of either breast or underarm area.

How to Check for Breast Lumps

What do normal breasts feel like?

Normal breast tissue consists of differing textures and feels, including fat, glands, and connective tissue. Some women’s breasts may be more textured, or dense, than others. The feel of your breasts may also change based on your monthly menstrual cycle.

Every woman will have a unique “normal” feel to their breasts. It is important for all women to be breast self-aware and know what normal feels like for them. This will help you easily and quickly identify any breast changes. The best way to become familiar with your normal breast feel is to perform a monthly breast self-exam.

When to See a Doctor

As a general rule, any new breast lump or breast change should be checked by a healthcare professional. Please schedule an appointment with your provider if you notice anything different or a change in your breasts, including but not limited to:

• The discovery of a new breast lump, whether painful or not painful
• A lump that doesn’t go away after menstruation
• A lump that changes in size or shape
• Breast skin that is red or beings to pucker like an orange peel
• A new inverted nipple
• Discharge from the nipple, particularly if bloody

Preventative Care

Mammogram

All women over the age of 40 should receive an annual mammogram. A mammogram is an x-ray that allows a qualified specialist to examine the breast tissue for any suspicious areas.

Mammograms are the best way to catch breast cancer in its earliest stages, when it is easiest to treat.

For tips on how to schedule a mammogram, including information on financial assistance, read How to Schedule a Mammogram.

Well-Woman Exam

All adult women should have a physical exam that includes a clinical breast exam and pelvic exam every year. This physical exam will help ensure that there are no unusual findings that need to be investigated further. However, if any unusual symptoms or changes in your breasts occur before your scheduled visit, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.

Breast Self-Exam

Adult women of all ages are encouraged to perform a monthly breast self-exam to look for any changes in the breast tissue, including a lump or other abnormalities, such as changes in the breast skin. Read more about breast self-exam here.

What Kind of Doctor Should I See?

If you are experiencing a breast lump or a change in your breast tissue, you may begin with seeing your primary care physician or OB/GYN. That doctor will perform a clinical breast exam, and may then refer you to a breast specialist or mammogram facility, depending on their findings. If you are not satisfied with the recommendation of a healthcare professional, we encourage you to seek a second opinion if necessary.

The post Breast Lump appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Overcoming Barriers to Scheduling Your Mammogram

Many women encounter barriers when trying to schedule a mammogram. Often, things like concerns with cost or not knowing who to call can be discouraging when setting up an appointment. This article provides the essential information you need so that you do not miss out on this important exam.

What You Need to Know

Before being able to schedule a mammogram, you might need a referral from a doctor if you are under the age of 40, have already received your annual screening mammogram for the year, have an abnormal breast symptom, or have had breast cancer in the past. If you are 40 years or older and simply seeking a screening mammogram without any of the exceptions mentioned, it’s unlikely you will be asked for a doctor’s referral. 

What Type of Mammogram to Schedule

Screening mammogram: If you don’t have any symptoms or pain, and just need your yearly mammogram.

Diagnostic mammogram: If you have continuous and persistent pain, redness, a lump, discharge, or other concerns that need to be evaluated. Diagnostic mammograms are also done after irregular findings in a routine screening mammogram.

Why is it Important to Know the Difference?

Screening and diagnostic mammograms differ in cost and in specialty. If you are paying for your service out of pocket or if your health insurance does not cover your diagnostic mammogram, you’ll want to know ahead of time to be prepared.

Read How to Prepare for a Mammogram for tips on how to prepare before and on the day of your mammogram appointment.

Where Can You Go to Get Your Mammogram?

Mammograms are often performed at the hospital, breast center building or an imaging center. You can also look to see if there is a mobile mammography unit (“mammovan”) that might be coming to a location near your home or work.  If you need help getting to your appointment, ask the facility if they have a transportation assistance program and what their guidelines are.

Keep in mind that facilities that don’t offer medical care beyond the screening service, like imaging centers, have limited financial assistance programs available.  

How to Cover the Cost of Your Mammogram

A hospital may have funds or a charity care program where they provide the mammogram for free or at a low cost. Call the hospital near you and ask to speak with a financial counselor who can explain the program and qualification requirements. You can also contact local charities that might pay for the mammogram. Be sure to check first with the organization to see if you qualify and what they will require of you.

NBCF partners with hospitals across the country to provide screening and diagnostic mammograms to women who qualify. Learn more about our National Mammography Program and search our list of partner hospitals. If you don’t find a hospital near you, consider looking at other national resources. There are also state and national screening programs that might offer free mammograms if you are already enrolled in Medicaid or Medicare. The National Breast And Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program has a directory you can browse by state. 

For those with insurance, please note that plans might cover each type of mammogram differently. For example, a yearly screening mammogram will be fully covered but you might be responsible for co-pays or deductibles if additional diagnostic mammograms or exams are required. Other technology, like those used in 3D mammograms, might have additional fees.

If you can’t get a free mammogram or need assistance with additional diagnostic exams, you might still be able to get the price reduced. Here are some tips:

• Ask if the hospital has a sliding-fee scale, where you receive a discount based on your income and household size.
• Ask about a cash pay discount, where you negotiate a lower price if you pay that lower price all at once.
• Ask about a payment plan, where you can pay the cost over the course of several months.
• Ask to speak to a patient navigator, social worker and/or a financial counselor who can explain your options.
• Some assistance programs take weeks to process applications. Consider applying to some of these programs prior to scheduling your appointment.

If you don’t have insurance, make sure to say that before your appointment to eliminate billing surprises after you’ve received care.  For those with insurance, have your insurance information ready when you make your appointment.

Who to Talk to

Call the breast center or the hospital’s main number. Ask to be transferred to the breast center or women’s health center. Once you are transferred, ask who you should speak with about scheduling a free mammogram. If the receptionist doesn’t know, ask to speak to a patient or nurse navigator.   

What to Say When you Call

Use the following phrases to help you get connected to the correct department:

“Hello! I am calling to schedule my mammogram.”

“I was referred to you about free or low-cost mammograms. Can you help me find out how I can qualify and how I can get that scheduled?

Potential Roadblocks and How to Get Around Them

If you come across the following roadblocks, consider using one of these responses. The goal is to ask questions that will lead to more options or resources that could benefit you.

“We don’t offer free mammograms here. The cost is going to be $400.”

• Ask if they have a partner facility that might offer free or discounted mammograms.
• If you are not interested in exploring a payment plan with this facility, consider this a great time to look at other options near you.

“I’m going to refer you to XYZ imaging company on the other side of town”

•  Ask if you will still be able to qualify for a free or low-cost mammogram through that location.

“The soonest appointment is in five months.”

• If this doesn’t work for you, ask if they know of any other nearby facilities that could provide a mammogram sooner. If not, ask if there is a cancellation list that you can be added to at this facility.

“You need a doctor or doctor’s order to schedule this exam.”

• If you don’t have a doctor and you are experiencing an abnormal breast symptom, try an internet search phrase like “Find a doctor near Dallas.” Many healthcare systems have online databases that will allow you to easily search for doctors by criteria, such as specialty and zip code. If you don’t have insurance, you may try searching “free and low-cost clinics near Dallas.” A family doctor or gynecologist can examine your breast symptoms and write an order for a diagnostic mammogram.  If you are scheduling an appointment with a doctor for the first time, be sure to tell the scheduler that you have an abnormal breast symptom.
• If you already have a doctor and the mammography facility requires a doctor’s order, be sure and let you doctor know that you need to schedule a mammogram, as well as any unusual breast symptoms that you are experiencing. Your doctor may want to examine you in the office before writing an order.

“We need your previous mammograms for this appointment.”

• In certain situations, you may be required to obtain your past mammogram records, like images, films or cds, from a previous facility. If so, contact the previous facility where you had your mammogram and ask how you may obtain your prior mammography images and reports. They may ask for the mailing address of your new mammography facility.

The post How to Schedule a Mammogram appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Every person should know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, and any time an abnormality is discovered, it should be investigated by a healthcare professional.

Most people who have breast cancer signs and symptoms will initially notice only one or two, and the presence of these signs and symptoms do not automatically mean that you have breast cancer.

By performing monthly breast self-exams, you will be able to more easily identify any changes in your breasts. Be sure to talk to your healthcare professional if you notice anything unusual.

A Change In How The Breast Or Nipple Looks Or Feels

• Nipple tenderness or a lump or thickening in or near the breast or underarm area
• A change in the skin texture or an enlargement of pores in the skin of the breast  (some describe this as similar to an orange peel’s texture)
• A lump in the breast (It’s important to remember that all lumps should be investigated by a healthcare professional, but not all lumps are cancerous.)

A Change In The Breast Or Nipple Appearance

• Any unexplained change in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling anywhere on the breast
• Unexplained swelling of the breast (especially if on one side only)
• Unexplained shrinkage of the breast (especially if on one side only)
• Recent asymmetry (unequal or lack of sameness) of the breasts. Although it is common for women to have one breast that is slightly larger than the other, if the onset of asymmetry is recent, it should be checked.
• Nipple that is turned slightly inward or inverted
• Skin of the breast, areola, or nipple that becomes scaly, red, or swollen or may have ridges or pitting resembling the skin of an orange

Any Nipple Discharge—Particularly Clear Discharge Or Bloody Discharge

It is also important to note that a milky discharge that is present when a woman is not breastfeeding should be checked by her doctor, although it is not linked with breast cancer.

Let your doctor know about any nipple discharge, clear, bloody or milky. The most concerning discharges are bloody or clear.

Questions About Breast Cancer Symptoms

If I have some signs or symptoms, is it likely to be cancer?
Most often, signs and symptoms are not due to cancer, but any breast cancer sign or symptom you notice should be investigated as soon as it is discovered. If you have any of these signs or symptoms, you should tell your healthcare provider so that the problem can be diagnosed and treated.

If I have no signs or symptoms, should I assume I do not have cancer?
Although there’s no need to worry, regular screenings are always important.  Your doctor can check for breast cancer before you have any noticeable signs or symptoms. During your office visit, your doctor will ask about your personal and family medical history and perform a physical examination. In addition, your doctor may order one or more imaging tests, such as a mammogram.

The post Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Should breast pain cause me to be concerned about breast cancer?

Although many women with pain in one or both breasts may be concerned that it is breast cancer, breast pain is NOT commonly a symptom of cancer.

Understanding Breast Pain

If you’re not aware of your breast health, important changes in your breasts can be easy to miss. Download our free eBook, Breast Problems That Aren’t Breast Cancer, to learn about the most common non-cancerous breast problems, like breast pain, you should know about.

Tell us where we can send your free copy:

What Causes Breast Pain?

There are a number of harmless causes for breast pain and tenderness that may primarily be related to changes in hormone levels. These can include:

• Puberty in girls and sometimes for boys, too
• Menstruation and premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Pregnancy – more often during the first trimester
• Days following childbirth as milk comes in Breastfeeding Mastitis, which is caused by a milk duct that is not properly draining and becomes infected, should be treated. It has no correlation with cancer, but it can become a serious infection if left untreated.
• Menopause
• A breast abscess, which is an infection inside of the breast, similar to a boil.
• A benign cyst

Fibrocystic Breast Tissue

Some women have lumpy breast tissue called fibrocystic breasts, which may be more painful during certain times of the month. Fibrocystic breasts are not necessarily linked to breast cancer, and the lumps are fluid filled cysts rather than a mass of cells. Fibrocystic breast changes are also a common cause of breast pain. Fibrocystic breast tissue contains lumps that tend to be more tender just before your menstrual period.

Certain Medications May Cause Breast Pain

Known triggers to increased breast pain include:

• Digitalis preparations
• Methyldopa (Aldomet)
• Spironolactone (Aldactone)
• Certain diuretics
• Anadrol
• Chlorpromazine

When Is Breast Pain Associated With Breast Cancer?

Breast pain is usually present to some degree with Inflammatory Breast Cancer which has other distinct symptoms as well. Rarely, a breast tumor may cause pain, but generally cancerous tumors are not reported as painful.

What should I do if I am experiencing breast pain?

If you experience breast pain, contact your physician. To learn more about breast self examination click here.

If You Experience Pain Along With Any Of The Following Symptoms, You Should Contact Your Physician.

• Bloody or clear discharge from your nipple
• A new lump with the onset of the pain; lump does not go away after your menstrual period
• Persistent, unexplained breast pain
• Signs of a breast infection, including local redness, pus, or fever
• Redness of the skin of the breast that may appear as a rash, with dilated pores, and possibly skin thickening. (These are signs of inflammatory breast cancer and it commonly does cause pain)

Detecting Breast Cancer Early

Breast cancer can’t usually be prevented, but you can take three important steps to help detect it earlier. The free resource, 3 Steps to Early Detection, can increase your chance of finding breast cancer before it spreads.

Tell us where we can send you your copy.

The post Breast Pain appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Understanding Breast Cysts

If you’re not aware of your breast health, important changes in your breasts can be easy to miss. Download our free eBook, Breast Problems That Aren’t Breast Cancer, to learn about the most common non-cancerous breast problems, like cysts, you should know about.

Tell us where we can send your free copy:

How Would I Know The Lump Is A Cyst And Not A Tumor?

A healthcare professional can determine whether a lump is a cyst or tumor. A simple ultrasound scan placed against the skin will allow the healthcare professional to see whether the lump appears solid or hollow and filled with fluid. If the lump is fluid-filled, it may require no treatment at all. You may notice that the cyst comes and goes depending on the hormone cycle of menstruation.

A solid mass doesn’t always mean it is cancer. The shape of the mass will help tell the radiologist what it likely is. A mass that is hard to the touch and has jagged edges could be cancer. Ultrasound imaging and additional imaging using X-Ray, called spot imaging, can help the radiologist differentiate shapes of masses.

What If The Cyst Bothers Me And I Want It Taken Out?

If a cyst is very bothersome, your healthcare provider may drain it first. A small needle is used to inject anesthesia into the breast to numb it, making it easier to then have the cyst drained. By using ultrasound to guide a needle into the cyst, the fluid can be removed and you may not have any more bothersome problems from it again. However, sometimes drained cysts will fill up again and when this happens, you may elect to have it removed surgically or you may leave it alone and see if it eventually goes away on its own.

Do cysts lead to cancer?

Nearly all “simple cysts” are just that – simple. They are almost never associated with a higher risk of cancer. The only possible exception in which a cyst might indicate a slightly elevated risk for cancer is when other risk factors for cancer, such as a strong family history, are already present, or when further examination of imaging studies reveals some debris inside or along the edge or margin of it.

What If My Breasts Are Always Lumpy? (Fibrocystic Breasts)

Fibrocystic breast tissue is a very common condition and means that you have denser breast tissue and may notice lumps and bumps that are common to the feel of your breasts. It is important for women with fibrocystic breast tissue to be diligent about performing breast self-exams so they are familiar with what is normal for their breasts and so they can report any changes.

Most premenopausal women have fibrocystic breast tissue. While performing your regular breast self-exam, make note of any lumps or bumps you identify and consult with your doctor. Consider your fibrocystic lumps to be your “normal” findings and determine through self-exam if something new is felt.

If I have fibrocystic breasts, should I ask my doctor about other types of screening?

Sometimes mammograms of women with fibrocystic breast tissue may be more difficult to read and interpret. Many healthcare professionals recommend choosing a breast center that offers digital mammography. Digital mammograms allow the radiologist to change to contrast of light and dark and to enlarge areas of the breast tissue on the screen to more closely examine areas of concern.

Materials on this page provided by: Johns Hopkins Medicine

Detecting breast cancer earlier

Breast cancer can’t usually be prevented, but you can take three important steps to help detect it earlier. The free resource, 3 Steps to Early Detection, can increase your chance of finding breast cancer before it spreads.

Tell us where we can send you your copy.

The post Breast Cyst appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

What Is A Breast Self-Exam?

A breast self-exam is an early detection tool that uses a combination of physical and visual examinations of the breasts to check for signs and symptoms of breast cancer. The purpose of a breast self-exam is to become familiar with the way your breasts normally look and feel. Knowing how your breasts normally look and feel, also called breast self-awareness, will help you identify any changes or abnormalities in your breasts, such as a new lump or skin changes. Any changes in your breasts discovered during a breast self-exam should be reported to your healthcare provider right away.

While a breast self-exam is a useful tool for the early detection of breast cancer, it should not take the place of regular mammograms and clinical breast exams.

How Often Should A Breast Self-Exam Be Performed?

Adult women of all ages are encouraged to perform breast self-exams at least once a month. Lillie D. Shockney, Johns Hopkins University Distinguished Service Professor of Breast Cancer states, “Forty percent of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump, so establishing a regular breast self-exam is very important.”

For women still menstruating, a breast self-exam should be performed a few days after her period ends. For those who are post-menopausal, a breast self-exam should be performed on the same day of each month, such as the 1st or 15th day of the month.

While mammograms can help you to detect cancer before you can feel a lump, breast self-exams help you to be familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. Alert your healthcare professional if you notice any changes in your breasts, such as a new lump, sore spot, changes in the appearance of the skin, or nipple discharge.

How Should A Breast Self-Exam Be Performed?

1) In the Shower 

With the pads/flats of your 3 middle fingers, check the entire breast and armpit area, pressing down with light, medium, and firm pressure. Check both breasts each month, feeling for any new lumps, thickenings, hardened knots, or any other breast changes.

2) In Front of a Mirror 

With your arms at your sides, visually inspect your breasts, looking for any changes in the contour or shape of the breasts, any dimpling, swelling, or other skin irregularities on or around the breasts, or any changes in the nipples.

Next, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Look for any dimpling, puckering, or other changes, particularly on one side. Note that the left and right breasts will not exactly match—few women’s breasts are perfectly symmetrical.

3) Lying Down

When lying down, the breast tissue spreads out evenly along the chest wall. Place a pillow under your right shoulder and put your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, move the pads of your 3 middle fingers around your right breast, covering the entire breast area and armpit.

Use light, medium, and firm pressure to feel for any new lumps, thickenings, hardened knots, or any other breast changes. Also squeeze the nipple to check for discharge. Repeat these steps for your left breast.

Can I Rely On Breast Self-Exams Alone To Be Sure I Am Breast Cancer Free?

Mammography can usually detect tumors before they can be felt, so screening is key for early detection. But when combined with regular medical care and appropriate guideline-recommended mammography, breast self-exams can help women know what is normal for them so they can report any changes to their healthcare provider.

If you find a lump, schedule an appointment with your doctor, but don’t panic — 8 out of 10 lumps are not cancerous. For additional peace of mind, call your doctor whenever you have concerns.

The post Breast Self-Exam appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

What’s The Difference Between A Breast Self-Exam And A Clinical Breast Exam?

A clinical breast examination is performed by a healthcare professional who is trained to recognize many different types of abnormalities and warning signs. This in-office exam will most likely be completed by your family physician or gynecologist at your annual exam, whereas your breast self-exam is something every woman should do at once at month at home.

A Visual Check Of Skin And Tissue

During a clinical breast exam, your healthcare provider checks your breasts’ appearance. You may be asked to raise your arms over your head, let them hang by your sides, or press your hands against your hips. These postures allow your healthcare provider to look for differences in size or shape between your breasts. The skin covering your breasts is checked for any rash, dimpling, or other abnormal signs. Your nipples may be checked to see if fluid is expressed when lightly squeezed.

A Manual Check for Unusual Texture or Lumps

Using the pads of the fingers, your healthcare provider checks your entire breast, underarm, and collarbone area for any lumps or abnormalities. It is worth noting that some women have breast tissue that appears to be full of tiny fibrous bumps or ridges throughout the breast tissue, known as fibrocystic breasts. Overall lumpy tissue is something your provider will want to note but is unrelated to cancer.

A suspicious lump –the type your physician is checking for– is generally about the size of a pea before anyone can feel it in the breast tissue. The manual exam is done on one side and then the other. Your healthcare provider will also check the lymph nodes near the breast to see if they are enlarged.

An Assessment of Any Suspicious Area

If a lump is discovered, your healthcare provider will note its size, shape, and texture. He or she will also check to see if the lump moves easily. Benign lumps often feel different from cancerous ones, but any lump found will likely need to be examined with further diagnostic measures.

It may be helpful to know that lumps that appear soft, smooth, round, and movable are likely to be either benign tumors or cysts. A lump that is hard and oddly-shaped and feels firmly attached within the breast is more likely to be cancer, but further tests are needed to diagnose the problem.

The Value of Clinical Breast Exams

Clinical Breast exams are an important part of early detection. Although most lumps are discovered through breast self-exams, an experienced professional may notice a suspicious place that fails to register as a warning in the patient’s mind.

Materials on this page are courtesy of National Cancer Institute

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What Is A Mammogram?

A mammogram is an x-ray that allows a qualified specialist to examine the breast tissue for any suspicious areas. The breast is exposed to a small dose of ionizing radiation that produces an image of the breast tissue.

Why Do I Need A Mammogram?

Mammograms can often show a breast lump before it can be felt. They also can show tiny clusters of calcium called micro-calcifications. Lumps or specks can be caused by cancer, fatty cells, or other conditions like cysts. Further tests are needed to find out if abnormal cells are present.

How Do I Schedule A Mammogram?

Many women encounter barriers when trying to schedule a mammogram. Often, things like concerns with cost or not knowing who to call can be discouraging when setting up an appointment. Read How to Schedule a Mammogram to learn the essential information you need so that you do not miss out on this important exam.

Read How to Prepare for a Mammogram for tips on how to prepare before and on the day of your mammogram appointment.

Recommendations For All Women:

• Women 40 and older should have mammograms every 1 or 2 years.
• Women who are younger than 40 and have risk factors for breast cancer should ask their healthcare professional whether mammograms are advisable and how often to have them.

Even women who have no symptoms and no known risks for breast cancer should have regularly scheduled mammograms to help detect potential breast cancer at the earliest possible time.

What Happens If My Mammogram Results Are Abnormal?

If the mammogram shows an abnormal area of the breast, your doctor will order additional tests offering clearer, more detailed images of that area.

Although lumps are usually non-cancerous, the only way to be certain is to perform additional tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI. If further tests show that the mass is solid, your radiologist may recommend a biopsy, a procedure in which cells are removed from a suspicious area to check for the presence of cancer.

What Is Dense Breast Tissue?

Every breast has a different mixture of breast tissue or variations of amounts of fatty and fibroglandular tissue. Broadly, breast tissue may be referred to as non-dense (more fatty) and dense (less fatty with more fibroglandular tissue). Dense breast tissue simply means there is more fibroglandular tissue, which appears white on a mammogram. When a patient has dense breasts, a mammogram will show that a greater amount of the breast is filled with dense breast tissue than fatty tissue.

How Do I Know If I Have Dense Breasts?

Having a mammogram is the best way to find out if dense breast tissue is present. A radiologist (doctor who views mammograms) will analyze the ratio of fatty tissue to dense tissue and determine the level of breast density. Breast density is measured and reported in a mammogram report.

On a mammogram, fatty tissue appears dark, while dense breast tissue appears white. Dense breast tissue isn’t transparent like fatty tissue, often making it difficult to see through.

Women with high density reported from having a mammogram may be at a slightly higher risk than women with low or normal density to get breast cancer. Additional imaging studies such as a breast MRI might be done for high density.

Note: If you’ve received the COVID-19 vaccination recently, read about why you may want to delay your screening mammogram.

Materials on this page courtesy of National Cancer Institute

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When it comes to breast cancer, there are some risk factors that you can’t control, such as your age and genetics. But there are other risk factors that are in your power to control. Although breast cancer cannot be completely prevented, taking control of these risk factors and adopting healthy habits can help reduce your risk for breast cancer.

What Can I Do To Reduce My Risk Of Breast Cancer?

Adopting healthy habits can help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer. You can:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a risk factor for developing cancer in both men and women. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce your risk of obesity and of developing cancer.

• Eat fruits and vegetables: Eating 3.5 to 5 cups of fruits and vegetables daily has been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
• Stay physically active: Studies have shown that women who are physically active have a lower risk of breast cancer than inactive women. Try to move your body at least 20 minutes every day to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer.
• Do not smoke: Smoking and even breathing second-hand smoke is a risk factor for developing many types of cancer, including breast cancer. Eliminate smoking and second-hand smoke from your lifestyle to reduce this risk.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Frequent consumption of alcohol can increase your risk for breast cancer. The more alcohol you consume, the greater your risk.
• Schedule your screenings: Staying proactive about your health through receiving regular health screenings, such as mammograms, well-woman exams, and other screenings as recommended by your doctor, can help identify health problems in their early stages when they are easier to treat.

Medically reviewed June 2023

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