Common Benign Breast Conditions

Many breast conditions are non-cancerous but can understandably cause concern. Most changes in the breast result from hormonal fluctuations or age-related factors.

It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any new changes in your breasts. For guidance on what to watch for, consider resources from charities like Breast Cancer Now or CoppaFeel!

Below is an overview of common benign (non-cancerous) breast conditions. If you’re concerned about any changes, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and, if needed, referral to a breast clinic.

Cysts are a frequent cause of breast lumps. They may occur in one or both breasts, as single or multiple cysts, and can range from painless to painful. Estrogen prompts fluid production in the breast, forming cysts. They are more common before menopause, though they may still appear if you’re on hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Cysts can run in families.

They vary in size and texture, from small and soft to large and firm. Tiny cysts are often detected during routine mammograms, while larger ones are typically felt as lumps.

If you find a lump, your GP may refer you to a breast clinic for an ultrasound (if under 40) or a mammogram (if over 40, sometimes with an ultrasound). If diagnosed, cysts can be drained with a fine needle, a virtually painless procedure. Usually, no further follow-up is needed, and it is safe to continue HRT if applicable.

This condition occurs when milk ducts behind the nipple shorten and widen with age, potentially causing nipple inversion, discharge, or discomfort.

A diagnosis is confirmed via imaging at a breast clinic. Ductal ectasia typically requires no treatment.

Fat necrosis results from trauma or surgery to breast tissue and can present as a lump. Sometimes, you may notice bruising over the affected area.

This condition is often identified during routine mammograms. Following a GP referral, an ultrasound or mammogram, and occasionally a biopsy, will confirm the diagnosis. No treatment is necessary, as fat necrosis typically resolves on its own, though this process can take months or even 1–2 years.

Fibroadenomas are usually painless, mobile lumps that often develop during puberty or pregnancy when estrogen levels rise. You might have one or several fibroadenomas.

After a referral to a breast clinic, an ultrasound or mammogram (depending on age) will confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy may also be performed to ensure the lump is benign and rule out cancer. Most fibroadenomas require no treatment and rarely become cancerous.

This inflammatory condition causes discoloured, sometimes pus-discharging lumps in one or both breasts. Its cause is unknown, but it is associated with autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid conditions. It’s more prevalent among women of Southeast Asian, Indian, or African descent.

Diagnosis involves imaging (ultrasound or mammogram) and possibly a biopsy. Treatment typically includes anti-inflammatory medications or steroids, often over several months. The condition usually resolves within 1–2 years.

Common in women over 40, these small growths in the milk ducts can sometimes cause bloody nipple discharge. Often discovered during routine mammograms, papillomas may occur singly or in clusters.

If the growth is atypical (unusual), there may be a slightly increased cancer risk, and removal is usually recommended. This can be done by removing affected ducts or through a biopsy, both usually straightforward outpatient procedures.

This condition involves tenderness, warmth, redness, and sometimes discharge or pus from the nipple. The nipple may appear inverted, or there may be a lump behind it.

It’s more common in younger women, particularly those who smoke, as smoking can slow duct healing or cause damage. Nipple piercings may also be a factor.

Diagnosis is made via ultrasound, sometimes with fluid sampling. Treatment may involve antibiotics, and stopping smoking can aid recovery. Severe cases may require surgical removal of inflamed tissue.

Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, sebaceous cysts, skin tags, and moles can also affect the breast.

If you’re concerned about any changes, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and, if needed, referral to a breast clinic.

For more information, you may find our resource on breast pain helpful.