A lump found in the breast at any time, including while breastfeeding, can be alarming. Many times, the lump is due to tissue changes that take place when the breasts begin producing milk. No matter what the suspected cause is, a lump in the breast should be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out any serious health concerns, including cancer. While lactating, a breast exam can be somewhat challenging because of the tenderness, fullness and frequency of normal lumps that exist due to milk production.
Engorgement
Engorgement, or breast fullness, may be one of the first uncomfortable experiences a woman has with breastfeeding. The California Pacific Medical Center’s Women & Infants Center (CPMC) points out that this type of fullness is normal and can occur as early as two to three days after the birth of the baby. The body begins sending more blood to the breast tissues and the process of producing milk begins. Engorgement differs from regular breast fullness because it includes tenderness in the breasts. There may be small or large lumps in the breast during this time that are painful to the touch. Frequent nursing, pumping or manually expressing the breasts to empty them are the primary treatment options. Once the milk is drained from the breast, the lumps and breast tenderness will diminish. Engorgement that persists for more than one full day can lead to other complications, such as mastitis.
Mastitis
Mastitis is an infection of the breast or breasts. The CPMC points out that such an infection is often caused by bacteria that has entered the breast tissues either by a sore on the areola or nipple or sometimes by an infected duct. Inside the breast tissues there are numerous milk ducts. When one of these becomes clogged, such as due to prolonged engorgement or wearing a tight-fitting bra, the milk cannot escape.
In addition to the painful lump that develops at the site of mastitis, a woman will feel pain due to the build-up of milk in the tissues. DrSpock.com indicates that the area where the hard lump exists will often be red and hot to the touch. In addition to breast symptoms, a woman may become tired, achy, develop a fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit or experience other flu-like symptoms. Treatment typically consists of an antibiotic, pain reliever medications, frequent nursing, massage and warm baths or compresses to the area.
Plugged Ducts
A plugged duct can occur whether or not a woman has mastitis. The duct can become clogged when the breast is not fully emptied at every nursing session, pressure is placed on the duct by clothing or the baby may have a weak or improper suck. The plugged duct may be noticed when the breast is still full in a particular area after a feeding or pumping session. When the area is massaged, the woman may find a lump that is tender to the touch, explains DrSpock.com. This lump may be pea-sized or it can be larger. It is important to massage the duct that is clogged and nurse frequently to loosen the blockage. Going several days with a plugged duct can lead to mastitis or engorgement.
About this Author
Sarah Irene has written stacks of research articles dating back to 2000, has consulted in a number of settings, and is an able resource for a vast range of topics. She has been a psychology instructor since 2006 and has had her work published by ParentDish. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology.
