Breast lumps are a common condition and have a number of different causes. While most lumps are not breast cancer, any unusual changes to the breasts should be checked by a GP as soon as possible.
The breast
The female breast is a complex gland that is made up of several different types of tissue. Each breast contains milk glands and milk ducts for transporting milk. These structures can increase or decrease in both size and number as and when they are needed.
For example, during pregnancy the milk ducts in the breasts will grow and the breasts will get larger. During breastfeeding, the breasts may change size several times throughout the day as milk is produced and the baby feeds.
The breast is also made up of:
- fibrous connective tissue
- fatty tissue
- nerves
- blood vessels
- lymph nodes (small oval-shaped glands that remove unwanted bacteria and particles from the body)
Each type of tissue and structure within the breast reacts differently to changes in the hormone levels in the body. Hormones are chemicals that can affect both the sensitivity and texture of the breast.
How common are breast lumps?
Breast lumps are quite common. Every year in the UK, about 3 in every 100 women visit their GP regarding a problem with their breasts. Most breast lumps, about 9 out of 10, are benign (non-cancerous).
There are several types of benign breast lump (see Breast lump - causes). They can vary in appearance or texture depending on the type. Most breast lumps are caused by hormonal changes that occur at different times in a woman’s life, such as during the menstrual cycle when a woman gets her monthly period.
Outlook
Most benign breast lumps will not require any treatment. However, it is very important that you visit your GP as soon as possible if you notice any changes to your breasts.
If your breasts are painful, medication can help ease the pain. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove a large growth, although this is not usually necessary.
