Hi folks:
I am facing my first mammogram today (at 34 years old) because I have particularly lumpy boobs. Now, since I’ve never touched anyone else’s boobs, how do I know that they’re particulary lumpy?
So, I’m asking the ladies to touch their boobs and tell me if they feel lumpy too. I’ve been under the impression that other women’s boobs must be smooth (mine ARE smooth) but not lumpy undernieth. Of course there’s glands and stuff in there, but do they feel lumpy?
I asked my husband about his previous experience with other women’s boobs, and, naturally, he cannot remember anyone else’s boobs. Smart Man.
So I’m looking to the masses (no pun intended) for help!
actually it is perfectly normal for thy boobs to feel somewhat lumpy – between your ribs poking thru in unexpected spots, cystic masses (not dangerous) and normal variation in the texture of the tissue. What you should be concerned about is CHANGES to the lumpiness of your boobs. This is why frequent self-exam is recommended – so you’ll know what is normal for you.
Lumpiness is fine and normal-- it should feel like lumpy oatmeal. Like rmariamp said, it’s the changes in the lumps that matter, and keep any eye (hand?) out for any lumps that feel particularly hard, as they may signal a problem. Don’t be nervous about it-- just be proud you’re being proactive about your health!
Well, I, for one, am going to refrain from posting the standard “I hereby volunteer to perform a thorough examination of any parts you wish examined” or such.
See how good I’m being?
I don’t examine my own breasts but I was just talking to a friend about how she has a number of cysts which make her breasts lumpy. Now that she knows about them, she has to remember where they are so she knows they don’t represent a change.
You mean, like Cam?
Do you know how to do a breast exam?
Lie flat on your back, put your arm over your head, and examine your breast with the other hand. You should do this with a flat hand. Make sure you get under the armpit. Then switch off. Some people do them in the shower… my doc told me it was better to do it lying down.
It’s best to check them fairly frequently- like every few weeks or once a month- so that you know what they feel like. That way you know when something changes.
And about the self-exam, do it once a month in the first week after your period. There are changes in “texture” right before and during your period that will alter how your breasts feel. Right after your period, however, everything’s clear, and will give you a better idea of what’s normal for you.
I’m just chiming in with the Lumpy Breast Crowd. I have very lumpy breasts due to fibrous cysts. No one’s complained yet, 'cause it gives the girls a little heft. It does make it a little more difficult to do a self-exam, because there are so many lumps. I applaud your decision to get an early mammogram.