Breast Lumps: Are They Normal During Development?

There is a hard lump in the chest?

Hello, doctor! I have a question that I have been struggling to understand.
I started my menstruation around the first or second year of junior high school, but I still have hard lumps in my breasts that feel like a solid area, and they seem to have grown slightly larger compared to when I was younger.
They are painful when I press on them.
However, I am already nineteen years old, and I should be past the developmental stage.
I have heard from my classmates that their breasts are soft and do not have lumps.
Is this normal for me? Should I get checked for any abnormalities? My breasts are small, and people say that having hard lumps inside is a sign of breast development during adolescence.
Does this mean I am still developing? I haven't grown taller in a long time, and my breasts haven't increased in size either.
Does having these lumps indicate that my breasts will still grow in the future?

mimie, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/12/09

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Miss Mimie,
At nineteen years old, having hard lumps in your left and right breasts warrants a visit to a breast surgeon for examination.
This condition may be indicative of fibrocystic changes, which are less likely to be malignant tumors; however, further diagnosis is necessary for clarity.
As for the presence of hard lumps in the breasts, it should not affect future breast development.

Wishing you peace of mind!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Wu Ching-Tang
Attending Surgeon, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2009/12/09

More Info

Breast lumps and changes during development can be a source of concern for many individuals, especially during the teenage years and early adulthood. It’s important to understand that breast tissue is composed of glandular tissue, fat, and connective tissue, and it can undergo various changes throughout a person's life due to hormonal fluctuations, particularly during puberty, menstruation, and pregnancy.

In your case, experiencing hard lumps in your breasts at the age of 19 is not uncommon, especially if you are still in the process of developing. During puberty, the breasts undergo significant changes due to the influence of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. These hormones stimulate the growth of breast tissue, which can lead to the formation of lumps or areas of firmness. These lumps are often benign and can be attributed to normal breast development, particularly in younger individuals.

The presence of hard lumps that are painful upon pressure can be indicative of several conditions, including fibrocystic breast changes, which are common and characterized by lumpy, painful breasts. These changes are often cyclical and can vary with your menstrual cycle. Many women experience these changes, and they are typically not a cause for concern unless there are other alarming symptoms, such as persistent pain, changes in the skin over the breast, or unusual discharge from the nipple.

It’s also worth noting that breast tissue can feel different from person to person. Some individuals may have denser breast tissue, which can feel firmer or lumpier, while others may have softer, more fatty breast tissue. The perception of breast softness or hardness can vary widely among individuals, and it does not necessarily correlate with breast size or development.

Regarding your concerns about breast growth, it is important to understand that breast development can continue into the early twenties. Genetics, body weight, and hormonal levels can all influence breast size and shape. If you have concerns about your breast development or if the lumps are causing you significant discomfort or anxiety, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can perform a clinical breast examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or mammogram, if necessary, to ensure that the lumps are benign.

In summary, while it is common to have hard lumps in the breasts during development, especially in younger individuals, it is essential to monitor any changes and consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns. Regular self-examinations and awareness of your body are crucial in identifying any unusual changes. If you experience any new symptoms, such as persistent pain, changes in the appearance of the breast, or unusual discharge, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.

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