During a breast exam, your doctor will discuss symptoms and risk factors for breast cancer. A full physical examination will follow (breasts, lymph nodes, skin, nipples etc).

To further evaluate a breast lump, your doctor might recommend a breast ultrasound. You might have a tissue sample removed (biopsy) for histological and microscopic testing.

You should see your doctor if: You find a breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue; You experience breast pain and it doesn’t go away after your period; Your breast changes in size or shape; The skin on your breast becomes itchy, scaly, dimpled or puckered; You are experiencing spontaneous nipple discharge or the nipple becomes inverted; There is a breast cancer history in the family or you have had breast implants for a number of years.