Home
Bupa members

Support and offers for individual members and customers

Breast lump investigation Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, November 2008.

Answers to questions about breast lump investigation

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

Does a breast lump mean I have breast cancer?

Finding a lump in your breast does not mean you have cancer. Most breast lumps are not cancerous and may, instead, be fibroadenomas or cysts.

Explanation

Fibroadenomas are harmless overgrowths of the breast tissue and they are usually diagnosed after a needle biopsy. They are most common in women under 30 but can occur at any age. Fibroadenomas are often painless and move easily under the skin. Most fibroadenomas will slowly shrink in size and do not require treatment, but if the lump is getting bigger you can have it removed.

Breast cysts are sacs of fluid which build up in the breast tissue. Fluid can build up in the breast tissue as a result of hormonal changes. For example, it's normal to have lumpy, tender breasts just before your period, especially near your armpits. Cysts are most common in women aged between 30 and 50. They can be painful and usually move easily under the skin. If the cyst is causing pain or discomfort the fluid can be drained using a needle.

You should check your breasts a week after your period because this is when they are at their most soft. If you find a lump it's best to have it checked by your doctor. If your doctor has any concerns, he or she will refer you to a specialist.

Men should also check their breasts regularly. If you see any change or feel a lump, it's best to have it checked by your doctor.

Further information

Sources

  • Benign conditions (non cancer). Breast Cancer Care. www.breastcancercare.org.uk, accessed 1 January 2008
  • Understanding breast disorders. Dixon MJ, Leonard RCF (eds). The British Medical Association. Family Doctor Publications 2002
back to top

What causes nipple discharge?

Nipple discharge is usually caused by swelling of the ducts underneath.

Explanation

Nipple discharge is fluid coming from the nipples. All women have fluid in their breasts and it's possible some of this may come out, particularly during vigorous exercise or sexual activity. Most often the discharge is coming from the milk ducts in the breast. It may be range in colour from white to pale yellow to green to blue/black and may come from one or both nipples.

You may get blood-stained discharge if you have a duct infection or if you develop a wart in the ducts, called papilloma.

As you grow older, the ducts widen and sometimes they can get blocked causing thick yellow or blood-stained nipple discharge. This is more common in women reaching the menopause. A skin infection on the surface of the nipple can also cause your nipple to leak fluid.

If you notice any blood-stained or unusual discharge coming from your nipples, it's best to have it checked by your doctor. If your doctor has any concerns, he or she will refer you to a specialist.

Men should also check their nipples regularly. Get a doctor to check your nipples if you notice any change or discharge.

Further information

Sources

back to top

Will the breast biopsy hurt?

How much discomfort you feel during the biopsy depends on the type of breast biopsy you are having. A fine needle biopsy may sting a little but a core biopsy may be painful.

Explanation

A fine needle biopsy is less painful because only a small sample of tissue cells is taken from your breast. The technique is similar to having an injection. A fine needle is passed through the skin into the breast area being examined (usually just once) and cells are drawn out into a syringe attached to the needle. You may feel a slight sting similar to having an injection.

A core biopsy involves removing a sample of the breast tissue. Your doctor will need to make a cut on your skin to pass the special needle into the breast area being examined. A core biopsy can be painful. Your doctor will usually perform the biopsy under a local anaesthetic to help minimise any discomfort. You may need pain relief after the effects of the local anaesthetic wear off.

Further information

Breakthrough Breast Cancer
08080 100 200
www.breakthrough.org.uk

Sources

back to top

This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by consultant Mr Simon Cawthorn, MS, FRCS and by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: November 2008.

 

Rate this page

Up to £100 off a Bupa Health assessment

Bupa health insurance

Free online health check

Bupa Care Homes

Bupa travel cover