Finding a Lump or Nipple Discharge
Finding a Lump
Lumpiness is very common during the menstrual stages. However, if you find a lump that is different in size, consistency or is new, take notice. If you are premenopausal and the lump persists after one menstrual cycle, ask a physician to evaluate it. If you are post-menopausal, see a physician without waiting any extra time. If you notice changes in your nipple or breast texture, or if you experience prolonged itching or swollen underarm lymph nodes, discuss these changes with your doctor.
Finding Nipple Discharge
If you find nipple discharge, schedule an appointment with your physician. It’s especially important to see your doctor if the discharge is persistent.
For many women, nipple discharge is a normal part of life. Milky discharge from both breasts may be related to hormonal changes. This discharge can be a variety of shades of color, and usually occurs bilaterally (in both breasts). It is important to know that squeezing your nipples encourages discharge to occur.
The amount of discharge that women have is usually very small, and discharge can happen at any time during the menstrual cycle. The general rule is that most breast symptoms, when they are present in both breasts at the same time, represent a change in the hormonal cycle are not considered to be related to cancer.
Discharge may be problematic when persistent (without squeezing the nipples), spontaneous, and in one breast only. A bloody discharge is an important symptom that should be evaluated by a physician.
October 2007
