Breast Health FAQ’s

Which area of the breast is most vulnerable to abnormal, cancerous growths?

The upper, outer quadrant of the breast contains the most tissue and is the most likely site for abnormal growth. 

Which point in the menstrual cycle is best for self-examination of the breasts, and why?

Prior to menstruation, coarse nodules or firmness may be more noticeable.  Fibrocystic changes such as pain, tenderness and bumpy areas throughout the breast, are associated with hormonal stimulation that fluctuate with the menstrual cycle.  Cyclic breast pain, or mastalgia, occurs during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Due to these reasons, it is most comfortable and beneficial to perform a self-examination a few days after the end of menstruation. 

What is fibrocystic breast tissue, and how is it identified?

Fibrocystic breast tissue are normal changes in breast anatomy and is not associated with an increase in breast cancer.  Breasts are composed of fat and connective tissue and over time the ratio changes causing some areas of the breast to be denser than others. The changes may be asymptomatic or associated with pain, tenderness or bumpy areas throughout the breast tissue that fluctuate with the menstrual cycle.  The fibrous tissue may feel firm or rubbery, but will not feel rock hard.  Clinical findings include symmetrical nodularity that are more prominent in the upper, outer region of the breast.  Fibrocystic changes are common and associated with hormonal stimulation.  It is not common, however, in those who are postmenopausal. 

What is the cardinal rule to help identify normal from abnormal tissue in performing breast exam? 

Ascertain bilateral symmetry!  If a variation is found in one breast, check for the same variation in the same spot on the other breast.  If structures match, everything is fine.  Nonmalignant breast tissue includes painful/tender, firm, mobile, well-defined masses that fluctuate with size and tenderness with menstrual cycle changes.  A dominant mass is one that cannot be replicated in the same location on the other breast.  A mass that is considered suspicious of breast cancer is one that is hard, rocky and immobile with irregular or ill-defined borders.