[laura.]

Hey, I'm really worried... my grandmother just passed away from breast cancer, and her sisters have had cancer as well... after my shower today I felt a lump, well I'm not sure how to describe it. Its like a small ball.. its only on my right breast, I'm really worried...

[redhed35]

Can I ask what age you are?

Getting the lump checked out by a doctor is your first port of call.

There are often changes in the breast coming up to a period,don't panic just yet and go see your doctor.

[J_9]

First let me let you know that I am a cancer SURVIVOR. I can help, but you need to calm down. I understand your concern.

Now...
1) how old are you?
2) is it any where near time from your period?

[laura.]

I'm 18 turning 19,
No I'm not near my period yet... I usually get them at the end of the month...

[laura.]

I'm 18 turning 19,
No I'm not near my period yet... I usually get them at the end of the month...

[redhed35]

I'm afraid J9 does not seem to be on line at the moment,but my advice is to get the lump checked out and take it from there.

It may be nothing or it may be something,but worrying won't fix it or ease your mind.

Its scary,I know,but just take your courage in your hands and tell your mother and go see the doctor.

[J_9]

Okay, so you are 18 years old, and not near your period yet. HOWEVER, since your period is two weeks away (approximately), you can wait to make that doctor's appointment for the time being.

What I want you to do (remember I am not only a breast cancer survivor, but also a registered nurse in the women's health field) is wait until a few days after your period ends. This is when your hormones are relatively stable. Right now, while you don't feel what is going on, your body is actually working overtime to gear up for your period.

Hormones are changing at a rapid pace... the lining of your uterus is getting thicker in preparation for either a period or a pregnancy... your breasts are preparing for lactation if you become pregnant.

Now, with all of that going on, many women get "lumpy" breasts a week or two prior to their period.

So... Wait until a few days after your period, when your hormones aren't so haywire. IF it's due to hormonal issues (fibrocystic breasts) it should go away. If there is any concern AFTER your period, make an appointment with your doctor for possibly a mammogram and/or a fine needle aspiration.