I feel a hard lump in my breast: what should I do?

Breast tissue can feel different with hormonal changes, cysts, fibroadenomas, infection, or injury. A breast lump is a common presentation of breast cancer, but most breast lumps are not cancerous. Hardness, tenderness, mobility, and timing in the menstrual cycle cannot diagnose the cause by touch. A clinician may examine both breasts and the nearby lymph-node areas, then choose imaging or a sample if needed.

Arrange an appointment for a new or persistent lump, and note when you first noticed it, whether it changes with your cycle, and any nipple or skin changes. Avoid repeatedly pressing the area, which can increase soreness and make it harder to judge change. Bring information about pregnancy, breastfeeding, hormone medicines, prior breast problems, and family history. Follow through with any recommended imaging or review.

Seek prompt medical care for a lump with redness, warmth, fever, rapid swelling, a newly inverted nipple, bloody discharge, skin dimpling, or a swollen armpit. Get urgent help if severe pain, marked swelling, or feeling very unwell develops. Do not wait for a lump to become painful before arranging assessment.

What features did you find on examination? Which imaging test is appropriate? When should I expect follow-up? Would a biopsy help identify the cause?