Normal breast changes

Breasts naturally change over time and from shifts in body weight. Most women’s breasts change during the menstrual cycle. Hormones can cause the breasts to feel swollen, tender or lumpy. Women who take birth control pills may find that their breasts become larger and firmer.

During pregnancy, the breasts enlarge to produce milk, making them larger and firmer.

During and after menopause, ducts and mammary glands shrink and are replaced with fatty tissue, making breasts feel less lumpy. Women who take hormone therapy may notice fewer breast changes related to menopause.

Breast Self-exam

Breasts change throughout your life, but monthly breast self-exams will help your recognize any unusual changes. A self-exam includes both a visual and physical examination of the beasts, looking for abnormalities or changes. Consult with your doctor for more thorough instructions.

Call Clinic Sofia if you notice new lumps or thickening, puckering of the skin or other changes, or spontaneous or bloody discharge from the nipple.

Benign breast conditions

Most breast conditions are benign, or non-cancerous. Benign breast conditions can include infection, nipple discharge, fibrocystic changes or lumps. All women are at risk for breast cancer, with increasing risk as you become older. If you notice a change in your breasts that is not normal for you, contact Clinic Sofia.