One or more lumps were found in your breasts. These are likely fibrocystic breast changes.
With this condition, fibrous tissue and small cysts form in your breasts. They may increase and decrease in size with your menstrual cycle. Symptoms can include breast lumps that you can see and feel. You may also have breast pain, swelling, and tenderness.
The lumps linked with fibrocystic breast changes are not cancer, and don't lead to cancer. They are very common and affect most women at some point in their lives.
Treatment for fibrocystic breast changes is rarely needed. Home care to relieve symptoms may be recommended, though.
If confirmation of the diagnosis is desired or needed, further evaluation may be done. This can include:
-
Another exam by your healthcare provider or a gynecologist
-
Imaging tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound
-
Biopsy (procedure to remove small tissue samples from the breast lumps)
You’ll be told more about these tests, if needed.
Home care
-
If you are having breast pain:
-
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, if directed to by your provider.
-
Wear a well-fitted bra or sports bra for extra support. If you have breast pain at night, try wearing the bra during sleep.
-
Apply a warm compress (towel soaked in warm water) to the breast. You may also use a hot water bottle.
-
-
Check your breasts each day. Keep a log of whether the lump seems to be changing in size or tenderness with your period. This can help your healthcare provider learn more about your breast condition.
-
Ask your healthcare provider about lifestyle or diet changes or alternative treatments you can try to help treat this condition.
Follow-up care
Follow with your healthcare provider, or as directed. You may be advised to schedule another appointment for a breast exam with your provider or a gynecologist about 7 to 10 days after the start of your next period. If fibrocystic breast changes cause symptoms that bother you, tell your provider. They may recommend other treatments.
When to get medical advice
Call your healthcare provider right away if any of the following occur:
-
Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider
-
Redness or swelling of the breasts
-
Discharge from the nipples
-
Visible changes in the skin over the nipples or breasts
-
Lumps grow larger, feel very hard, or have an irregular shape
-
New lumps form that look or feel different from current lumps
Featured in
