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Breastfeeding Questions - Breast Lump
Hi, I just need a little info if you please! I'm breastfeeding my son and he is now 9 weeks old and putting on plenty of weight. I suffered from blocked ducts at first and I had red patches. But I managed to clear this up by using warm flannels.
This past few weeks have been really good. He is feeding well but 3 weeks ago I noticed a lump in my breast. I thought it might have been another blocked duct but there is no red patch. I tried to massage but it's not going away.
I'm getting a bit worried now as in the 3 weeks it seems to be a bit bigger. At first it was the size of a pea, now it is the size of a pebble. Please reply. Thank you for reading.
Congratulations on your new baby and well done for breastfeeding him!
Any lump which is not going away needs to be evaluated by your GP and you will probably be referred for an ultrasound scan. Please try not to worry too much though as most breast lumps are benign (non cancerous).
There are a number of reasons for lumps in the breast including milk-filled lumps or a fibroadenoma which is a mobile lump composed of harmless fibrous tissue. In fact, I personally have had several fibroadenoma so I understand how worried you are.
The only way to know for sure is to ask your GP for a referral to a breast specialist. Do not delay because if the lump is harmless, it will put your mind at ease and you can get on with enjoying this special time in your life.
If the lump is suspicious, the sooner you get it seen to, the better.
Have a look at the following article on my website by Dr Jack Newman, which addresses lumps in the breast:
Dr Jack Newman: Breastfeeding and Mastitis
Please make an appointment today. And please let me know how you get on.
Sinead