Symptoms · Breast
A lump in the breast
The short answer
Most breast lumps are not cancer. Common causes are cysts, fibroadenomas and the normal lumpiness (fibrocystic change) that varies with your period. But any new lump, or a change in the breast, needs to be examined, because finding cancer early gives the best chance of cure. See a doctor within a week or two for any new lump, and sooner if it is hard, fixed, or growing.
How patients describe it
- A lump I found in the shower
- A hard spot in my breast
- Breast pain before my period
- Fluid from the nipple
- A lump in the armpit
See a doctor within days if you have
- A new lump that is hard, fixed, or growing
- Skin changes: dimpling, puckering, or skin like an orange peel
- Nipple changes: turning inward, scaling, or bloody discharge
- A lump in the armpit
- A hot, red, painful breast with fever (go to the emergency room if you feel very unwell)
Most lumps are harmless and breast cancer is treatable, so do not wait out of fear.
What can cause it
Cyst
A smooth, fluid-filled lump that may change in size with your period.
Next step: Ultrasound; sometimes the fluid is drawn off with a needle.
Fibroadenoma
A firm, rubbery, easily moved lump, most often in younger women.
Next step: Ultrasound and sometimes a needle sample; it may be watched or removed.
Fibrocystic change (fibroadenosis)
General lumpiness and tenderness that is worse before your period.
Next step: Examination and reassurance; lifestyle changes.
Infection or abscess
A hot, red, painful area, often with fever, sometimes while breastfeeding.
Next step: See a doctor the same day; antibiotics, and drainage if needed.
Breast cancer
A hard, irregular lump that is often painless.
Next step: A full assessment: examination, imaging and a needle sample.
What you can do now
- Do not wait for it to go away: book an examination
- Note the size and position of the lump, and whether it changes with your period
- Check your breasts yourself every month, a few days after your period ends
- Tell the doctor if breast or ovarian cancer runs in your family
Tests your doctor may order
- A clinical breast examination
- Breast ultrasound, and a mammogram when your doctor advises it
- A needle sample (biopsy) of the lump if needed
When is surgery needed?
- Many lumps are watched or need no surgery.
- A lump that is growing, suspicious, painful or worrying may be removed. Cancer is treated by a team, and your surgeon will explain the options.
Related operation guides
Questions people ask
Does a painless lump mean it is safe?
No. Cancerous lumps are often painless, so any new lump should be checked whether it hurts or not.
Do lumps change with my period?
Cysts and fibrocystic change often do. A lump that does not change after your period needs to be examined.
Is surgery for a benign lump safe?
It is usually a short operation. Your surgeon will explain the possible risks, such as bruising, infection or a collection of fluid.
This page gives general information and does not replace the advice of your treating team. In an emergency, go to the nearest emergency room.