Breast Lumps

Any time you discover a new breast lump, you should always make an appointment with a health professional.

While waiting for your appointment, proceed with our Health Decision Guide. You will be asked a short series of questions and your answers will direct you to information most pertinent to you.

Breast lumps commonly occur in women, especially during their reproductive years, the years between puberty and menopause. When there are multiple small lumps, they are almost always benign.

While a single lump is a little more concerning, most lumps discovered no matter what your age are still more likely to be benign than malignant.

Click here to begin the guide.

Some changes in the breast are associated with a greater risk that the lump may be more serious.

Have you noticed any of the following changes in one or both of your breasts

  • indentations in the shape or skin of your breast

  • dimpling of the skin of your breast

  • nipple retraction (your nipple looks like it is being pulled into the breast itself)?

Yes, I have noticed one or more of these changes.

No, I have not noticed any of these changes.

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.

  • Research health conditions
  • Check your symptoms
  • Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
  • Find the best treatments and procedures for you
  • Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
Learn more about the many benefits and features of joining Harvard Health Online »

I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift.

The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness, is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health, plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise, pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss...from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts.

BONUS! Sign up now and
get a FREE copy of the
Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness.