Breast Lumps — Why Prompt GP Review Matters

A breast lump always deserves medical review

Finding a breast lump can feel worrying. Many breast lumps are benign and not cancer, especially in younger people, but every new breast lump needs timely medical assessment. Early review supports clarity, reassurance, and safer care — and if a problem exists, earlier detection improves outcomes.

What a breast lump may feel like

A lump may feel firm, soft, smooth, rubbery, painful, or painless. Some lumps feel fixed, while others feel moveable. Breast tissue also naturally changes across the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause. Even if a lump “seems harmless,” self-judging is not enough — professional review is essential.

Other breast changes that matter too

See your GP promptly if you notice:
• nipple inversion, new nipple changes, or discharge (especially blood-stained)
• skin dimpling, puckering, thickening, or an “orange peel” texture
• redness, swelling, warmth, or rapidly changing breast shape
• persistent pain in one breast without clear explanation
• visible breast changes, even if you cannot feel a lump

People with breast implants, past breast surgery, or previous breast cancer should also seek early medical review of any new concern.

Urgent review — when not to wait

Seek urgent care if you notice:
• rapidly enlarging breast swelling
• fever and breast redness during breastfeeding (possible mastitis)
• sudden severe pain
• significant skin changes or spreading redness
• any breast lump during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Very rarely, inflammatory breast cancer presents without a classic lump but with redness, swelling, thickened skin, or warmth. Any fast-changing breast symptom requires review.

Men and people of all genders matter too

Breast lumps can occur in men and transgender people. Any breast change deserves review regardless of gender.

Understanding the Australian care pathway

If you have a symptom such as a lump, breast change, or discharge, this is different from routine screening.

• Your GP arranges diagnostic imaging, such as breast ultrasound and/or mammogram through appropriate radiology services.

• BreastScreen Australia is for people without symptoms. If you already have a lump or change, BreastScreen is not the first step — your GP guides you into a diagnostic pathway instead.
  If required, your GP may refer you to a breast specialist or multidisciplinary breast clinic.

A culturally safe and respectful note

In some cultures and communities, breast concerns may be delayed due to fear, stigma, embarrassment, privacy worries, or beliefs about illness. If this affects you or your family, your concerns are valid. Healthcare services in Australia aim to be respectful, confidential, culturally safe, and supportive. Coming forward early is an act of strength and care for your health.

How your GP supports assessment and care

Your GP takes your concerns seriously. Assessment may include history, examination, and referral for imaging depending on your age and findings. Care is individualised, thorough, and guided by clinical standards. If a lump is benign, your GP supports reassurance and follow-up. If further care is needed, you have a clear pathway.

Screening versus symptom checking

Screening mammograms are for routine population screening.
A new lump requires diagnostic assessment, not screening. Your GP ensures you access the correct pathway quickly.

A reassuring but firm message

Many breast lumps are benign. But “wait and see” is not safe. Prompt GP review provides clarity, reassurance, and better health protection. You do not need to feel alone — speaking with your GP is the safest and most supportive first step.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.