Treatment of fibroadenoma in pregnancy

A fibroadenoma is a non-cancerous breast lump made from glandular and connective tissue. Pregnancy hormones can make it feel larger or more tender. A familiar diagnosis does not mean every new change is the same lump, so a new, growing or altered mass should be checked.

Breast Ultrasound is commonly used to examine a lump during pregnancy because it does not use ionising radiation. If the appearance or examination is concerning, a Breast Biopsy can provide tissue for diagnosis.

Keep scheduled reviews and note changes in size, firmness, pain, skin appearance or nipple discharge. Wear supportive clothing and discuss safe comfort measures with the maternity team.

When imaging is reassuring and symptoms are manageable, observation may be appropriate during pregnancy. Removal is generally considered when the lump keeps enlarging, causes significant symptoms, or cannot be confidently identified. Breast Lump Excision is a surgical option that should be weighed with the breast and obstetric teams.

Contact your clinician promptly for rapid enlargement, skin dimpling, redness that does not settle, bloody nipple discharge, a fixed lump, fever, or a new lump in the armpit. These signs do not establish a diagnosis, but they should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask whether the lump matches a fibroadenoma on ultrasound, whether biopsy is advisable, how pregnancy changes timing, and whether monitoring can continue after delivery.