Should You See a Doctor for Breast Lumps Before Your Period?

Q: Should You See a Doctor for Breast Lumps Before Your Period?

Hello： It is recommended to get checked first, you don't have to wait for your menstrual period. <br>Breast Surgeon Dr. <br>Wu Yu-Ting.

Breast lump

Hello doctor, I would like to inquire about my menstrual cycle, which occurs approximately every 40 days.
I visited a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for menstrual regulation, and before the Lunar New Year, they mentioned that they would help me induce menstruation.
However, it has now been 40 days, and my period, which was expected on February 2, has not arrived yet.
During the Lunar New Year, I noticed some lumps in my breasts, and as of yesterday, February 3, I felt a sizable hard lump above the left nipple.
It is not painful, but it feels very firm and somewhat movable.
Should I see a doctor to examine my breast now, or should I wait until my period actually arrives before getting tested? My period is already overdue.

Zhu Zhu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/04

Dr. Wu Yuting reply Surgery

Hello: It is recommended to get checked first, you don't have to wait for your menstrual period.
Breast Surgeon Dr.
Wu Yu-Ting.

Reply Date: 2017/02/04

More Info

When it comes to breast health, any new lump or change in the breast should be taken seriously, especially if it is new, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms. In your case, you mentioned feeling a hard lump in your left breast, which is concerning enough to warrant a visit to a healthcare provider, regardless of your menstrual cycle.

Breast lumps can arise from various causes, including hormonal changes, benign conditions like fibroadenomas or cysts, and, in some cases, malignancies. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly those related to the menstrual cycle, can cause breast tissue to swell and become lumpy. However, a lump that feels hard and movable, as you described, should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out any serious conditions.

Given that your menstrual cycle is irregular and you have not had your period for over 40 days, it is advisable to see a doctor sooner rather than later. The healthcare provider may perform a clinical breast exam and may recommend imaging studies such as a mammogram or ultrasound to further evaluate the lump. These imaging tests can help determine the nature of the lump—whether it is solid or cystic—and provide more information about its characteristics.

It is also important to consider that hormonal treatments, such as those you mentioned receiving from a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, can influence breast tissue. Hormonal imbalances can lead to changes in breast density and the formation of lumps. If you are undergoing any hormonal treatments, be sure to inform your doctor, as this information can be crucial in understanding your breast health.

In summary, you should not wait for your menstrual period to arrive before seeking medical advice. It is essential to have any new breast lump evaluated promptly. Early detection and diagnosis are key to managing breast health effectively. If the lump is benign, you can have peace of mind, but if it requires further investigation or treatment, addressing it sooner can lead to better outcomes.

In addition to seeking medical attention, keep track of any other symptoms you may experience, such as changes in breast size, skin changes, or discharge from the nipple. These details can be helpful for your healthcare provider in making an accurate diagnosis. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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