Hello,
I just have a question about glandular tissue. I was examining my breasts over the last few days (doing this more so lately due to my cousin having breast cancer). On my left breast I could feel quite a distinction between where the fatty tissue ended upper outer quadrant and where the glandular tissue started. I have pressed down quite firmly and I can’t feel a lump, but where the glandular tissue ends and joins onto the more fatty tissue it almost feels like a lump due to the change in type of tissue. I am pretty certain this is just where the glandular tissue ends, but it doesn’t feel quite as obvious in my right breast. It’s the usual sort of ropey kind of texture that glandular tissue has, but the fact it isn’t quite so pronounced in the other side has just made me over think it a bit. Is it possible for one side to have more glandular tissue than the other side? Also, this may be a factor - I am premenstrual.
I haven’t called the doctor as there isn’t a lump and I think it’s just normal breast tissue.
Just wondered if it’s usual for one side to feel more glandular/dense than the other side and if it’s normal for there to feel a distinct difference where the glandular tissue meets the fatty tissue?
Many thanks
Hi momo1
Thank you for posting. It is good to hear that you are being breast aware and getting to know what your breasts look and feel like normally (for you).
Breasts are made up of glandular, fibrous and fatty tissue and may feel either smooth or lumpy – both are normal. Your breasts may feel lumpy or different around the time of your period, but they’ll often settle down again when it’s over. Its also not unusual for one breast to feel different to the other.
Breast tissue naturally has a lumpy texture. Lumps that feel harder or different from the rest of the breast (or the other breast) or that feel like a change should be checked. Very occasionally lumps are a sign of a benign (not cancer) breast condition, which may need to be checked out by a doctor and as you have concerns about an area in your breast we would suggest you make an appointment with your GP to be assessed if the change remains once your period has finished.
For more information see our booklet Know your breasts: a guide to breast awareness and screening. Our Touch, Look and Check(TLC) messaging may also be helpful in checking for anything new or different.
You also mention that your cousin has been diagnosed with breast cancer recently. It might help to know having a family history of breast cancer does not automatically mean you are at a greater risk of developing breast cancer in the future. Most breast cancers are not inherited. There are only a small number of people who will be at a greater risk of developing breast cancer because they have a significant family history. The biggest risk factors for developing breast cancer are being a woman and increasing age.
If you’re concerned that your family history is significant, you can also discuss this with your GP when you see them.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000. If you have hearing or speech difficulties prefix our number with 18001 and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.
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Best wishes
Katy
Breast Care Nurse
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