Breast Lump or Cancer? Types, Causes & How to Check at Home

Breast Cancer Symptom or Something Else? How to Know If That Lump Is Serious

You're in the shower or getting dressed when your hand brushes against something unfamiliar…a lump in your breast. Your heart skips a beat.

Before your mind races to worst-case scenarios, take a breath. Finding a lump can be scary, but it doesn't automatically mean cancer. In fact, roughly 80% of breast lumps are actually benign, meaning they're not cancerous, caused by factors like hormonal changes, fluid-filled cysts, or fibroadenomas.

That said, it's important not to ignore it either. A lump is your body's way of getting your attention, and it's worth listening. The good news? With the correct information and timely action, you can figure out which is a breast cancer symptom, which is not, and what to do next, without spiralling into panic.

Breast Lump or Cancer? Types, Causes & How to Check at Home

Your breasts aren't static. They shift with hormones, age, your cycle, and even stress. So it's completely normal to feel changes over time – a new lump, a thicker patch, or a change in shape or texture.

The tricky part is knowing when something is just part of that natural fluctuation and when it might be worth a second look.

Here's a general rule: a normal breast lump is usually soft or rubbery, moves under your fingers, and feels similar to the tissue in your other breast. It might come and go with your period and usually isn't fixed in place.

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  A lump that feels harder, more defined, or doesn't move easily
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  A new lump that wasn't there before or stands out from the surrounding tissue
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  Thickening or fullness in one specific area
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  Swelling or a hard knot under the arm
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  Skin changes like redness, warmth, dimpling, or irritation
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  Pulling in of the nipple or any nipple changes
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  Discharge from the nipple (especially if clear or bloody)
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  Localised pain that sticks around in one spot
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  Anything that just feels "off" compared to your usual

Your body is always sending signals. Knowing how to interpret them is the first step in taking charge of your breast health!

What causes them?

Many symptoms of breast cancer in women, like lumps, swelling, or tenderness, can have a wide range of underlying causes. Not all of them are dangerous, but some do need medical attention. Understanding the root of these changes can help you take the proper next steps.

Below are some of the most common causes of breast lumps, ranging from harmless fluid-filled cysts to conditions that might require a follow-up:

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  Breast cysts
  These are fluid-filled sacs that can feel smooth, round, and a little firm. They often show up before your period and may shrink or go away afterwards. They can be a bit tender, but they're usually benign and don't require treatment unless they're painful or persist.
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  Fibrocystic breast changes
  If your breasts feel ropy, thick, or tender in certain areas – especially before your period – it could be fibrocystic changes. This is a hormonal response, not a disease, so there's no need to panic. The texture can feel uneven, but it usually settles after your cycle. That said, since some stage 1 breast cancer symptoms can feel similar, it's smart to check in with your doctor if it doesn't go away.
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  Fibroadenomas
  These are solid, non-cancerous lumps that feel smooth and move around under the skin, like a small rubbery ball. They're common in younger women and may change size with hormones, pregnancy, or birth control. Usually harmless, they can sometimes be monitored or removed, so do get a professional opinion.
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  Injury or fat necrosis
  A blow to the breast or post-surgery healing can cause fat necrosis, where fatty tissue becomes firm and forms a lump. It's benign but can feel suspicious and can often look like breast cancer symptoms on scans, so doctors may order a biopsy to be sure.
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  Breast cancer
  While most breast lumps aren't cancerous, some are, so you should take any new or unusual lump seriously. Cancerous lumps tend to feel hard, irregular, and fixed in place, but not always. If a lump doesn't feel like your usual breast tissue, or you've already noticed other breast cancer symptoms, make sure to see a doctor.

Breast self-exams: What to do and what to look for

Self-exams aren't about being perfect; they're about being present. When you’re familiar with what’s normal for your breasts, it’s easier to pick up on anything that feels off.

This isn't a substitute for mammograms, and it won't catch everything. However, it is a simple way to stay in tune with your body. Many symptoms of breast cancer in women can be easy to miss, so paying attention, even once a month, can make a real difference.

You don't need a perfect technique, and you definitely don't need to run through all the steps every time. Just choose one that feels doable for you. Try doing it a few days after your period ends — your breasts will be less tender, and you'll get a clearer sense of what's normal.

Once you're ready to give it a try, these are some simple ways to start:

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  In the shower:
  Use the pads of your fingers to move in small, gentle circles across your entire breast and up into your armpit. Feel for any lumps, thick areas, or changes in texture.
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  In front of a mirror:
  Stand with your arms by your side, then raise them overhead. Look for changes in shape, symmetry, skin texture, or anything that looks off; some early breast cancer symptoms are visible before they're felt.
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  Lying down:
  This position helps spread the tissue more evenly. Lie on your back with a pillow under one shoulder and your arm raised above your head. With the other hand, check your breasts using light, medium, and firm pressure.

Again, this isn't a perfect science; it's about knowing your normal. If something feels unfamiliar or off, it's always okay to ask a doctor to take a closer look.

Your next step matters: Stay proactive about breast cancer symptoms

Noticing a lump or change in your breast can bring up a lot of questions, and it's completely valid to feel unsure about what it means.