Breast Lumps: What You Need to Know About Your Symptoms

There are hard lumps in both breasts?

Since the onset of breast development, I have noticed round hard lumps on both sides of my chest, located directly beneath the nipples.
Given that my breasts are relatively small, I can grasp the lumps entirely with my hand, and they move when I push them with my fingers.
The upper part of my breasts feels quite firm with little fat, and when pressed, it feels like I am touching some kind of tissue that is slightly uneven.
When I push from the outer side of my breasts, the lumps move together.
There hasn't been any significant change in size before or after my menstrual period.
Occasionally, I experience slight pain, but it lasts only for a moment.
I always thought that everyone had a similar condition, but after discussing it with friends, I realized it might not be the same, which has made me quite worried.
Is this considered normal? Thank you.

Jinzhang de ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/26

Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid

I recommend that you visit a specialized breast surgery clinic for an ultrasound examination, as it would better meet your needs.

Reply Date: 2020/11/26

More Info

Understanding breast lumps and associated symptoms is crucial for maintaining breast health and addressing any potential concerns. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing round, movable lumps located directly beneath your nipples in both breasts since puberty. This situation, while concerning, is not uncommon, and there are several factors to consider.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that breast tissue is composed of glandular tissue, connective tissue, and fat. The lumps you are feeling could be normal breast tissue variations, particularly if they are movable and do not change significantly in size with your menstrual cycle. Many women have fibrocystic breast changes, which can present as lumpy or dense areas in the breast. These changes are often benign and can be influenced by hormonal fluctuations, but they can also be present without any hormonal correlation.

The fact that you mentioned these lumps do not significantly change in size before or after your menstrual period is noteworthy. Typically, hormonal changes can cause breast tissue to swell or become more tender, but if you do not experience these changes, it may indicate that the lumps are not related to your menstrual cycle. The occasional pain you experience could be linked to normal breast sensitivity or other benign conditions.

However, it is essential to differentiate between benign lumps and those that may require further evaluation. The characteristics of the lumps you described—movable, located beneath the nipple, and not significantly changing in size—are generally reassuring. Still, any persistent pain, changes in the skin over the breast, or changes in the appearance of the nipple (such as discharge or inversion) should prompt further investigation.

In terms of what you should do next, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, preferably a breast specialist or a gynecologist. They may recommend a clinical breast examination and possibly imaging studies such as a mammogram or ultrasound to assess the lumps further. These tests can help determine if the lumps are benign or if they require additional evaluation.

Additionally, it is important to perform regular breast self-exams to monitor any changes in your breast tissue. If you notice any new lumps, changes in size, shape, or any unusual symptoms, you should seek medical advice promptly.
In summary, while your symptoms may be indicative of benign breast changes, it is always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current symptoms, ensuring that you receive the appropriate care and peace of mind regarding your breast health. Remember, early detection and intervention are key in managing any potential breast issues effectively.

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