Movable Breast Lumps: What You Need to Know - Breast and Thyroid

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The lump is movable?


Hello: There is a movable lump (larger) near the center of my right chest that does not hurt when pressed; there is also a movable lump (smaller) near the center of my left chest that does not hurt when pressed either.
Is this a normal situation? PS: My menstrual period is expected to start in about 5 days.
Thank you 😊

Ms. Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/15

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid


Dear Ms.
Chen: The hard lump in the middle of your breast is likely part of the breast tissue itself.
Breast self-examination should not be done by grabbing, but rather by using the pads of your fingers to gently press and feel for any raised lumps on the surface of the breast.
Based on your description, it seems more like the normal breast tissue.

Reply Date: 2016/04/15

More Info


When it comes to movable breast lumps, it’s essential to understand that breast tissue is composed of various structures, including glandular tissue, connective tissue, and fat. The presence of lumps can be concerning, but not all lumps are indicative of a serious condition.
In your case, you mentioned that you have two movable lumps in your breasts, one larger in the right breast and a smaller one in the left breast, both of which do not cause pain when pressed. This is a common scenario, especially in women of reproductive age, as hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can cause changes in breast tissue.

Understanding Breast Lumps
1. Nature of Movable Lumps: Movable lumps that are not painful are often benign. They can be cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs, or fibroadenomas, which are solid, non-cancerous tumors made up of glandular and connective tissue. Both of these conditions are common and usually harmless.

2. Hormonal Influence: Breast tissue is sensitive to hormonal changes, particularly estrogen and progesterone, which fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle. As you approach your menstrual period, you may experience breast tenderness, swelling, or the formation of lumps due to these hormonal changes. This is often referred to as fibrocystic breast changes, which are benign and characterized by lumpy or rope-like breast tissue.

3. Self-Examination: It’s important to perform regular self-examinations of your breasts to become familiar with their normal texture and feel. This can help you identify any changes more easily. When examining your breasts, look for changes in size, shape, or texture, and note any new lumps or changes in existing lumps.


When to Seek Medical Advice
While many breast lumps are benign, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any of the following:
- A lump that feels hard or fixed in place.

- Changes in the skin over the breast, such as dimpling or puckering.

- Any discharge from the nipple that is not related to breastfeeding.

- A lump that grows in size or changes in texture over time.

In your case, since the lumps are movable and painless, they may not be a cause for immediate concern, especially if you are close to your menstrual period. However, it is always wise to err on the side of caution. If the lumps persist after your menstrual cycle or if you notice any changes, it would be prudent to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider for a clinical breast examination and possibly imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or mammogram.


Conclusion
In summary, movable breast lumps that are not painful are often benign and can be attributed to hormonal changes. However, it is essential to monitor these lumps and seek medical advice if there are any changes or concerns. Regular self-examinations and awareness of your breast health are key components in maintaining your overall health. If you have any doubts or experience new symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

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