Multiple Pea Sized, Hard Lumps

Hello. I have an appointment with my OB/GYN on Thursday, but I can’t help but stress right now. I am 40 and had my first mammogram in June of this year. Everything came back fine but I do have dense breasts. I also have very lumpy breasts. I started doing self exams just this year and I feel multiple, maybe 5-6, hard, small lumps in my left breast near the nipple but none in my right breast. They don’t seem to move. 

Is it normal to find so many lumps if it is cancer? I’m super stressed but trying to remain calm as this may be something totally normal. 

Hi Niki

It’s impossible to say what’s normal as every breast is different. As you say, you already know you have dense and lumpy breasts. I had barely noticeable breasts but I had two well-developed tumours in one of them that even my GP and then my breast consultant couldn’t at first detect. You also had a mammogram only 5 months ago and even those of use who’ve been treated for breast cancer only get them once a year - that’s considered a safe period. I’d imagine 5-6 tumours in so short a time would be improbable. BUT it’s always important to get checked out and fortunately you have your appointment on Thursday.

Most breast lumps are benign. Just keep reminding yourself of that. Cysts can be aspirated or you can get used to where they are located and what they feel like. But that still isn’t breast cancer. My advice would be to avoid Dr Google, guaranteed to scare the wits out of anyone with a pair of boobs, focus on some good relaxation techniques and remind yourself that you were safe 5 months ago so why would anything be so different so quickly? I wish I had a magic wand to reassure you till then as the waiting is awful. Think positive is all I can say.

I wish you all the best on Thursday xx

Update:

My OB/GYN pointed out one more lump to me. She said that she isn’t concerned but will have radiology call me to set up an appt for a diagnostic mammogram and an ultrasound. So, hopefully I’ll have more information in a week or two.