Breast problems are very common in women of all ages. Most breast problems are not caused by breast cancer but it is really important to get any breast problems or concerns checked by a doctor. You may need to be referred to a breast specialist and you may need some tests such as a mammogram or an ultrasound scan to find out the cause.
What breast problems can occur?
There are may different breast problems, including:
- Breast lumps.
- Breast pain and tenderness.
- Mastitis.
- Nipple discharge.
- Inverted nipples.
- Changes in the skin of the breast.
Why we need to talk about breast implant illness
Have you heard of breast implant illness? Although not yet recognised as an official medical con...
Worried about your health?
Find a range of women's health pharmacy services, delivered by local providers at a time that suits you
What are the causes of nipple discharge?
Nipple discharge is usually caused by benign disease (ie not breast cancer). Normal nipple discharge occurs during pregnancy and breastfeeding and may continue until up to one year after childbirth or the end of breastfeeding. Excessive breast stimulation can also cause nipple discharge.
Nipple discharge can be caused by certain gland (endocrine) problems such as a prolactinoma or if you're taking certain medicines (the combined oral contraceptive pill, cimetidine, antidepressants or metoclopramide).
Nipple discharge caused by an underlying breast problem (for example, breast cancer) is more likely to affect only one breast, the discharge may be bloodstained and there may also be an abnormal lump in the same breast.
What causes inverted nipples?
An inverted nipple points into the breast instead of the normal shape of pointing outwards. Inverted nipples are often harmless with no serious underlying cause. Many women are born with nipples that naturally invert at times and then point outwards at other times. Sometimes the nipple may become inverted after breastfeeding.
If one or both nipples start to invert then it is very important to get it checked out but most cases are not due to anything serious.
The possible causes of inverted nipples include:
- Injury to the breast, or breast surgery.
- Breast cancer.
- Breast infections - for example, mastitis.
- Rapid and substantial loss of weight.
What are the causes of changes in the skin of the breast?
Skin problems can develop on or near the breast. There may be itching, scaling, dimpling, swelling, redness or other changes in skin colour. There is often no serious underlying breast problem but these skin changes may be caused by breast cancer so it's really important to get checked out straightaway in case there is a serious problem.
Further reading and references
Salzman B, Collins E, Hersh L; Common Breast Problems. Am Fam Physician. 2019 Apr 1599(8):505-514.
Breast pain - cyclical; NICE CKS, August 2021 (UK access only)
Perry MC; Breast Lump
Breastfeeding problems; NICE CKS, February 2022 (UK access only)
my breast doesn't hurt but my nipples look like this the second one was like this too but now its normal . what is this and is this normal?
rin11095
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Egton Medical Information Systems Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.