I Feel a Lump in My Breast – What Should I Do? A Step-by-Step Guide

Content author: Iwona Chruścicka, MD, general and oncological surgeon · Editorial work: Wyspa Editorial Team Medycyny Przyjaznej · Recenzja medyczna: dr n. med. Iwona Chruścicka · Data stworzenia: 07.08.2026 · Data recenzji: 07.08.2026 · Aktualizacja: 07.08.2026

Artykuł ma charakter edukacyjny i nie zastępuje badania lekarskiego ani diagnostyki obrazowej. It is not possible to determine the nature of the change based on the description alone or on independent examination. Wciągnięcie brodawki, krwisty wyciek, owrzodzenie skóry, zaczerwienienie i obrzęk całej piersi, a także gorączka z bolesnym guzem wymagają pilnej konsultacji.

Najważniejsze informacje w skrócie

• Zdecydowana większość wyczuwalnych guzków piersi to zmiany łagodne — ale każdy wymaga oceny.
• You should not wait until it disappears on its own or observe changes for months on your own.
• The diagnostic path is constant: medical examination → imaging examination → if indicated, biopsy.
• The type of imaging test depends on the age and situation - usually an ultrasound in younger women, a mammogram in older women.
• The diagnosis is made by microscopic examination of the material taken during biopsy, not by the image itself.
• Biopsy does not spread the cancer - this is one of the most harmful myths in this field.
• The absence of pain excludes nothing; pain also does not exclude the need for diagnostics.
• Breast changes may occur in women of all ages, including during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Men may also have changes in their breasts and also require evaluation.
• Self-examination helps you notice changes, but does not replace screening tests.

Dowiedz się więcej o specjalistce

Dr n. med. Iwona Chruścicka jest specjalistką chirurgii onkologicznej, z wieloletnim doświadczeniem w diagnostyce i leczeniu chorób piersi. Prowadzi pacjentki przez cały proces — od pierwszej konsultacji i omówienia wyników badań obrazowych, przez biopsję, po kwalifikację do dalszego leczenia. He also deals with surgical treatment of skin and subcutaneous lesions with skin plastic surgery.

Poznaj dr n. med. Iwonę Chruścicką

Pierwsze 24 godziny — czego nie robić

Zaczynam od tego, bo w praktyce to właśnie pierwsza doba decyduje, czy pacjentka trafi do gabinetu za tydzień, czy za pół roku.

• Don't check this place every hour. Repeated pressure will not provide an answer and will often cause tenderness and swelling, making the lesion appear larger and more dangerous.
• Don't look for diagnosis on the Internet. It is impossible to determine what the change is based on the description. It can't be done based on a photo either.
• Don't wait for it to disappear. Some of the changes actually go away, but whether you can wait for it is decided by the doctor after the examination.
• Do not use compresses, ointments or herbs "for absorption". They won't change anything and may delay diagnosis.
• Don't hide it from yourself. Postponing an appointment due to fear of diagnosis is humanly understandable and is the worst possible strategy.

Instead, do one thing: make an appointment. The rest will be resolved on the spot, usually within one or two consultations - and the uncertainty that comes with waiting can be more difficult than the diagnosis itself.

Step 1. Consultation and examination

The first step is to visit a doctor specializing in breast diseases - an oncological surgeon, surgeon, gynecologist or family doctor, who will direct you further.

What does the visit include:

• interview - since when can the lesion be felt, does it get bigger, does it hurt, does it change during the cycle,
• questions about the cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding, hormonal drugs used,
• family history - breast and ovary diseases in relatives,
• examination of both breasts and nodes lymphatic armpits and supraclavicular areas,
• assessment of the skin and nipples,
• determining which imaging test will be appropriate.

Pay attention to one thing: both breasts are always examined, even if the lesion is on one side. Comparison of the sides is an important element of the assessment, and the second breast may be a source of information that the patient did not notice on her own.

Take previous breast examinations with you if you have them - even from years ago. The ability to compare an image over time can completely change the interpretation.

Step 2. Imaging examination

Palpation alone is not sufficient to determine the nature of the lesion. The next step is an imaging test, and its choice depends primarily on the patient's age and the structure of the gland.

The result of an imaging test usually contains a category describing the degree of suspicion of the lesion. This is not a diagnosis - it is information about how typical or atypical the picture is and what treatment results from it: observation, control after a specified period of time or biopsy.

Please do not interpret this category on your own at home. The result is discussed by the doctor in the context of the clinical examination and the patient's entire situation - and this discussion is part of the diagnosis, not a formality.

Step 3. Biopsy, if indicated

A biopsy involves taking material from the lesion to examine it under a microscope. This is the only test that gives a certain diagnosis - neither palpation, nor ultrasound, nor mammography alone make it.

Most often, it is performed under ultrasound control, which allows for precise targeting of the lesion. Local anesthesia is used. The collection itself takes a short time, and the patient usually returns to her usual activities on the same day - with the recommendation to spare the area and apply pressure at the injection site.

The type of biopsy is selected by the doctor depending on the nature of the lesion. Core needle biopsy allows you to obtain a fragment of tissue, which allows for a more complete microscopic assessment and the determination of additional parameters. Fine needle biopsy collects cells and is sometimes used in other clinical situations - for example, to assess lymph nodes or drain cysts.

And the thing I want to write most clearly from the whole article, because I repeat it every time I'm on duty:

Biopsy does not spread the cancer. This belief has no basis and is sometimes the reason why patients refuse the examination and waste months. Refusing a biopsy doesn't protect you against anything - it just takes away your ability to find out what you're dealing with when it's easiest to do so.

Krok 4. Wynik i decyzja

Po otrzymaniu wyniku badania mikroskopowego możliwe są trzy kierunki postępowania:

• Obserwacja — gdy zmiana jest łagodna i nie wymaga usunięcia; an inspection date is then set.
• Usunięcie chirurgiczne — gdy zmiana łagodna powiększa się, sprawia dolegliwości, budzi wątpliwości albo pacjentka chce ją usunąć.
• Further oncological treatment - when the diagnosis requires it; then the patient is referred to the treatment center.

I want to add something that is not strictly medical, but is important. Okres oczekiwania na wynik jest dla większości pacjentek najtrudniejszy z całego procesu — trudniejszy niż samo badanie i często trudniejszy niż późniejsze leczenie. This is normal and it is worth telling your doctor about itinstead of going through this time in silence.

It is also worth coming to discuss the result with someone close to you. During such a conversation, it is difficult to remember everything, and the other person will hear what he missed.

Czym może być guzek w piersi

Poniższe zestawienie ma pokazać, jak szeroki jest wachlarz możliwości — a nie służyć do samodzielnego rozpoznawania.

• Cyst - fluid-filled space; it may appear suddenly and may be tender.
• Fibroadenoma - benign solid lesion, common in younger women, usually well circumscribed and movable.
• Zmiany włóknisto-torbielowate — najczęstsza przyczyna „grudkowatości” piersi, często nasilająca się przed miesiączką.
• Lipoma - a benign lesion of fatty tissue, soft and movable.
• Intraductal papilloma - may cause discharge from the nipple.
• Inflammation and abscess - usually painful, with redness, more common during breastfeeding.
• Fat necrosis - sometimes after trauma or surgery; may mimic a solid lesion.
• Malignant lesion - possible at any age, therefore each nodule requires evaluation.

Patients often ask if they can tell it apart by its consistency, mobility or pain. The answer is: no. The doctor takes these features into account, but none of them - neither separately nor together - is sufficient for diagnosis. Therefore, the path is always the same: examination, imaging, and if indicated, biopsy.

Objawy wymagające pilnej konsultacji

Nie zwlekaj z wizytą, jeżeli zauważysz:

• guzek twardy, nieprzesuwalny lub szybko powiększający się,
• wciągnięcie brodawki lub skóry, zmianę kształtu piersi,
• wyciek z brodawki, zwłaszcza krwisty lub z jednej piersi,
• zmianę skóry przypominającą skórkę pomarańczy,
• owrzodzenie, niegojącą się ranę lub zmianę wypryskową na brodawce,
• zaczerwienienie, obrzęk i ocieplenie znacznej części piersi,
• powiększone, twarde węzły chłonne w pasze lub nad obojczykiem,
• gorączkę z bolesnym, tkliwym guzem — może wskazywać na ropień,
• utrzymujący się ból w jednym miejscu piersi, niezwiązany z cyklem.

The sixth point should not be underestimated. Zaczerwienienie i obrzęk całej piersi nie zawsze oznaczają zwykłe zapalenie — jeżeli objawy nie ustępują po leczeniu przeciwzapalnym lub pojawiają się poza okresem karmienia, konieczna jest pilna ocena.

Special situations

Lump during pregnancy and breastfeeding

The breast changes a lot during this period - it is lumpy, tender, and milk stagnation occurs. This causes changes to be attributed to lactation and ignored.

The principle is the same: a lump that persists despite proper treatment requires evaluation - also during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Diagnostics are possible during this period; Ultrasound does not use radiation, and further treatment is determined individually. Postponing diagnosis "until the end of feeding" is not a good solution.

Lump in a man's breast

Men can also have changes in their breasts. Most often, it is an enlargement of the breast gland, but other changes also occur, including malignant ones - rare, but that is why they are often diagnosed late.

A hard lump, especially one on one side, located under or next to the nipple, nipple retraction or discharge - require the same assessment as in women. Shame is the only real risk factor that can be influenced immediately.

Family history

If there is a family history of breast or ovarian disease - especially in first-degree relatives and at a young age - tell us about it during your visit. This may influence the choice of tests, the frequency of check-ups and the decision to proceed with further diagnostics.

Breast self-examination - how and when

Self-examination is not a substitute for imaging tests or a screening program. Its value is different and very specific: allows you to get to know your breasts well enough to notice the change. And the noticed change is the beginning of the whole journey.

• When: once a month, preferably a few days after the end of menstruation, when the breasts are least tender. After menopause - on a fixed, selected day of the month.
• Viewing: in front of a mirror, with arms down and up - assess symmetry, shape, skin and nipples.
• Examination: with fingertips, in circular movements, systematically the entire breast, including the area under the nipple and armpit.
• In two positions: standing and lying down - changes can be felt differently depending on the position.
• Without pressing the nipple "forcibly" to check for leakage.

Regular imaging tests are performed in accordance with recommendations for a given age group and an individually agreed plan - especially in the case of family history. The scope and frequency are discussed by the doctor.

The most common myths

• "The biopsy spreads the cancer." No. This is a myth that actually delays diagnosis.
• "If it doesn't hurt, it's nothing serious." The absence of pain does not exclude anything - many lesions do not hurt.
• "If it hurts, it must be nothing bad." Pain also does not exempt you from diagnosis.
• "I'm too young." Breast changes occur at any age.
• "Men don't get breast disease." They get sick - less often, and therefore often diagnosed later.
• "Diagnostics are not performed during pregnancy and breastfeeding." It's done - only the right methods are selected.
• "Mammography is harmful." The radiation dose is small and justified by the value of the study.
• "Ultrasound is enough instead of mammography." Research complements each other; the choice depends on age and situation.
• "Bra or deodorant cause breast cancer." These are beliefs without foundation.
• "No one in the family has been sick, so it doesn't concern me." The lack of family history does not exclude the disease.

Do you feel a change or have a disturbing test result?

Don't wait and don't look for answers on the Internet. A consultation can help you figure out what to do next - and in most cases, simply calm the situation down.

Breast diseases at the Island of Friendly Medicine in Gdańsk

Dr. Iwona Chruścicka consults patients with breast changes at the Island of Friendly Medicine. The visit includes an interview, clinical examination of both breasts and lymph nodes, discussion of the results of imaging tests and determination of further proceedings - including qualification for biopsy or surgical treatment.

If the situation requires hospital or oncological treatment, the patient is directed to the appropriate center and receives support in going through the next stages. Dr. Chruścicka also deals with the surgical treatment of skin and subcutaneous lesions, including skin plastic surgery after their removal. The current scope of services, availability of dates and prices must be confirmed during registration.

Meet Iwona Chruścicka, MD Price list

What to ask during the visit?

• What do you feel during the examination and how do you assess this change?
• Which imaging test will be appropriate for me?
• What does the category mean in my study description?
• Is a biopsy needed and what type?
• How is a biopsy performed and how to prepare for it?
• When will I know the result and who will discuss it with me?
• What are the possible scenarios depending on the result?
• Can the change be observed or is it better to remove it?
• Does my family history change my behavior?
• How often should I get tested?
• What should I worry about before the next inspection?
• Can I come to discuss the result with an accompanying person?

FAQ - lump in the breast

I feel a lump in the breast - what should I do first?

Schedule a consultation. Do not examine this place repeatedly, do not look for diagnosis on the Internet and do not wait until the lesion disappears. The path is fixed: medical examination, imaging examination, and, if indicated, biopsy.

Is every lump in the breast cancer?

No. The vast majority of palpable lesions turn out to be benign - cysts, fibroadenomas, fibrocystic lesions. However, each change requires assessment, because it cannot be determined based on palpation alone.

Which doctor should I see?

To a doctor specializing in breast diseases - an oncological surgeon or surgeon. A gynecologist or family doctor can also refer you.

Ultrasound or mammography?

Depends on the age and structure of the gland. In younger women, pregnant and breastfeeding women, usually ultrasound; in women over 40, usually a mammogram. Both tests are often performed because they complement each other.

Does the biopsy hurt?

It is performed under local anesthesia, and the collection itself takes a short time. After the examination, there may be some tenderness and bruising at the injection site.

Can a biopsy spread the cancer?

No. This is a widespread myth that sometimes leads to refusal to undergo testing and loss of valuable time. Biopsy is the only test that can provide a certain diagnosis.

The lump doesn't hurt - is it a good sign?

The absence of pain does not rule anything out. Many changes, including those requiring treatment, do not cause pain.

I'm 25 - is it possible it's something serious?

Breast lesions occur at any age, although in young women they are much more often benign. Age is not a reason to abandon judgment.

I found a lump while breastfeeding - what should I do?

Request a consultation. If the lesion persists despite proper management of congestion, it requires evaluation. Diagnostics are possible during this period, and postponing it until the end of feeding is not a good solution.

Can a man have a lump in his breast?

Yes. Most often, it is an enlargement of the breast gland, but there are also changes that require treatment. A hard lump under the nipple, a retracted nipple, or leakage requires the same evaluation as in women.

How often should you perform self-examination?

Once a month, preferably a few days after menstruation, when the breasts are least tender. After menopause - on a fixed day of the month. Self-examination does not replace imaging tests.

When should I report urgently?

In case of retraction of the nipple or skin, bloody discharge, ulceration, skin resembling an orange peel, a rapidly growing hard lump, enlarged lymph nodes and redness and swelling of the entire breast.

Sources

• Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej, M.D. Iwona Chruścicka: https://www.wyspamedycynyPrzyjaznej.pl/pl/dr-iwona-chruscicka
• NHS, Breast lumps: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-lump/
• NHS, Breast cancer in women: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer/
• NHS, Breast cancer in men: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer-in-men/
• NHS, Breast pain: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-pain/
• NHS, Fibroadenoma: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fibroadenoma/
• NHS, Breast cysts: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cyst/
• NHS, Breast screening (mammogram): https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-screening-mammogram/
• NHS, Breast abscess: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-abscess/
• NHS, Mastitis: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mastitis/
• NICE, Suspected cancer: recognition and referral (NG12): https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng12
• NICE, Early and locally advanced breast cancer (NG101): https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng101
• NICE, Familial breast cancer (CG164): https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg164