Lump in breast, trying not to panic

[RubbishTiming]

I'm about to go away on a much-anticipated holiday, but I have found a lump on my breast. I will obviously book an appointment with my GP for when I get back, but I just need to blurt this out somewhere, anonymously.

The lump feels 3 or 4 centimetres long, and attached, rather than 'floating'. My period started yesterday, and I am used to minor changes in my boobs during my period, but I have never felt anything approaching a proper lump before.

I am so desperate to go on holiday and have a lovely time with the DC, but I can't help but worry (there are some pretty good reasons why I would worry more than most about this).

Don't know why I'm posting other than just to find a 'safe' place in which to panic, quietly!!

I am sure everything is fine and the lump will be nothing. Well, 99% sure

I had this, the GP was great, checked it was nothing to do with my cycle, was there before and after AF, she checked both breasts, confirmed the lump and sorted out a referral to the breast clinic. The appointment came through for next week, which is very quick but they do have a max. 2 week wait so if you get an appointment very soon after your GP visit don't panic. I have been told so expect an ultrasound and possible needle biopsy. I should plan to be at the clinic for 3-6 hours so take some company and a book.

Finger crossed all will be okay.

Blueberry, thank you so much for posting, and I have everything crossed that your lump is nothing to worry about.

I have made an appointment with my GP for a couple of days after we get back from holiday (Easter gets in the way). I know she will be brilliant. I am just going to have to put it to the back of my mind until then, aren't I? I am so crap at not worrying!

I can say the last 5 days and the next few until the 16th a dragging for me - I keep checking the lump is still there and it hasn't vanished (hoping it will so I can cancel) Try not to worry, enjoy your holiday and when you get back I hope your GP is as fantastic as mine was at making me feel more relaxed.

Rubbishtiming, I'm sorry that you have this worry, but it's good you've found it and know what to do when you're back from holiday. Most lumps are nothing to worry about, so try not to let it ruin your holiday. Even if it is what you don't want it to be, the short delay in seeing the doctor won't make a difference. And as Blueberry says, you will be referred to a breast clinic within two weeks for further checks. It's a very scary time - as I know from experience - but focus on your dc and the holiday and do your best to enjoy it.

If you need it, the tamoxigang thread is a hugely supportive thread for those with cancer and supporting others with cancer - mostly breast. I hope you don't need us, but we're there!

Wren, thank you so much. I hope you get through this with as little pain & discomfort as possible, and come out fit and well. Cancer is such an absolute bastard.

I am just going to have to (try) and put this to the back of my mind and enjoy our holiday. I feel better that I have an appointment booked with my GP for when we get back...I really can't do any more than that for now and as you say a week isn't going to make a difference.