It's a common condition, occurring most often between ages 20 and 45. Lumps are benign and can be as large as one or two inches wide. Symptoms typically are worse right before your period and usually improve overall after menopause (unless you're taking estrogen).

Is it normal for breasts to be lumpy?

Many women have breasts that feel lumpy, thick, and tender, especially right before their periods. These symptoms are called fibrocystic breast changes. They may also be called cyclic breast changes, because they come and go with your menstrual cycle. Fibrocystic breast changes are normal and harmless.

When should breasts be examined?

The best time to examine your breasts is usually 1 week after your menstrual period starts, when your breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. Examining your breasts at other times in your menstrual cycle may make it hard to compare results of one exam with another.