Lumpy boobs. How to tell the difference between a normal lump and a worrying lump?

[givingitupok]

Ever since breastfeeding I have had very lumpy boobs. I am an e cup and I check them regularly. But I find myself thinking well I just have lumpy boobs! How do you tell the difference? When I say lumpy they are totally full of little lumps! It's like I almost need someone else to check for me.

Yes I have very lumpy boobs too. I think it’s all the milk ducts. I am over 50 now so I’m on the NHS breast cancer screening. Be warned, if you have lumpy boobs the mammograms are super painful (as they squish all the lumps!).

I don’t think there is a sure fire way of knowing - I did have a mammogram when I was in my 40s because one of my breasts started leaking and that plus all the lumps meant I got seen. Maybe ask your Gp if you are concerned.

I went for a scan once and was just told my milk ducts were 'prominent' so people's ducts must just be different from person to person

I have lumpy boobs and have also had breast cancer. The tumour felt different - larger and smoother. The key is to know your own breasts so you notice any changes, including visual changes.

If you're very concerned then you could ask your GP if they will refer you for mammogram screening earlier than the usual age.

I developed a lump during breastfeeding and got it checked out. Turned out to be nothing and due to milk ducts/changes due to breastfeeding and it went away. But, I saw my GP first who was excellent and referred me straightaway for a scan at the hospital, and I was seen in two weeks. Both the GP and the hospital were very clear that I’d done the right thing and said it is a vulnerable time, and things can be missed by women who assume it’s down to breast feeding related changes. It’s probably fine OP, but you should see your GP to be certain.

I’ve just got my bigger lumpier boob checked and scanned and it was glandular tissue. Now I am familiar with how my boobs feel I will now know if I find anything abnormal, my lumpy part I got checked was a soft jelly like ball that moved and rolled and was joined onto another lumpy bit. Apparently I was checking my boobs wrong and nearly feeling my ribs as I was pressing too hard!

My consultant said to take evening primrose capsules to soften my breast tissue