It is important to be aware of how your breasts usually look and feel so you can quickly pick up on any changes that may occur.
See your GP if you notice a lump in your breast or any change in its appearance, feel or shape. Your GP may ask you a number of questions, including:
- when you first noticed the lump
- whether you have any other symptoms, such as pain or a discharge from your nipple
- whether your symptoms change with your menstrual cycle
- whether you have ever injured your breast
- whether you have any risk factors for breast cancer, such as a close family member who has previously had breast cancer
- what medications you are currently taking
- whether you are currently breastfeeding or whether you have done so in the past
Your GP will carry out a physical examination of both of your breasts, including the lump, and may refer you for further tests. Some of the tests that you may have are explained below.
Mammogram
A mammogram is a simple procedure that uses X-rays to create an image of the inside of your breasts.
A mammogram can help identify early changes in your breast tissue. Younger women usually have denser breasts than older women, which makes changes more difficult to identify. Therefore, mammograms are not as effective in women who are under 35 years of age. If you are under 35, your GP may suggest that you have a breast ultrasound instead (see below).
If you need to have a mammogram, a radiographer (an X-ray specialist) will position one of your breasts on a flat X-ray plate. A second X-ray plate will press down on your breast from above, so that it is temporarily flattened between the two plates. An X-ray will then be taken, which will produce a clear image of the inside of your breast.
After the first X-ray has been taken, the same procedure will be carried out on your other breast.
A mammogram only takes a few minutes to carry out. You may find it a bit uncomfortable or even slightly painful. After the procedure is complete, the mammogram (the image of your breast) will be examined for anything unusual.
Ultrasound
If you are under 35 years of age, a breast ultrasound may be recommended because your breast tissue may be too dense for a mammogram. Your doctor may also suggest that you have a breast ultrasound if they need to know whether a lump in your breast is solid or contains liquid.
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce an image of the inside of your breasts. An ultrasound probe or sensor will be placed over your breasts to create an image on a television screen. The image will highlight any lumps or abnormalities that may be present in your breasts.
See the Health A-Z topic about Ultrasound scans for more information about this procedure.
Biopsy
You may need to have a breast biopsy if the cause of your breast lump cannot be diagnosed using a mammogram or ultrasound. A biopsy is a procedure that involves removing a tissue sample from the lump for further testing.
During a biopsy, a fine needle will be inserted into the lump in your breast so that a sample of tissue can be removed. The sample will then be examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
See the Health A-Z topic about Biopsy for more information about this procedure.
Ductogram
A ductogram is sometimes used to investigate nipple discharge. Dye is injected into the milk ducts, which are the tiny tubes that carry milk, to ensure that they are clearly visible when an image is taken using a mammogram (see above).
A ductogram can be used to help diagnose a problem with your ducts, although most specialist breast units do not use this test.
