Breast Cysts and Lumps: What Every Nigerian Woman Must Know

Finding a Lump: What to Do First

Discovering a breast lump is frightening — especially in Nigeria, where breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and is typically diagnosed at advanced stages. But the most important thing to know is this: most breast lumps are benign. The most dangerous thing you can do is ignore a lump and hope it disappears. Every breast lump deserves assessment.

Types of Benign Breast Changes

FXMed tip: If any of this sounds familiar, our Hormone Balance Programme may be exactly what you need. Book a free assessment to find out where your health stands today.

• Cysts — fluid-filled sacs that are very common, particularly in women in their 30s and 40s; feel smooth, mobile, and may be tender before menstruation; clearly benign on ultrasound
• Fibroadenomas — solid benign tumours that are smooth, mobile, and often called "breast mice" because they move easily; very common in Nigerian women in their 20s and 30s
• Fibrocystic change — diffuse, lumpy, tender breast tissue that changes with the menstrual cycle; extremely common and benign
• Lipomas — fat-filled lumps; soft, mobile, slow-growing; benign

Features That Require Urgent Investigation

• Hard, irregular lump that is fixed (doesn't move) on examination
• Skin changes: dimpling, puckering, or orange-peel texture
• Nipple inversion that is new
• Blood-stained nipple discharge
• Axillary (armpit) lymph node enlargement alongside a breast lump
• Any lump in a post-menopausal woman

FXMed's Breast Health Programme

FXMed's maternal wellness and women's health service includes clinical breast examination and facilitation of breast ultrasound and mammography referral. We provide clear explanation of findings, support through investigation, and hormonal (see our hormones guide) assessment where relevant. Monthly breast self-examination guidance is provided to all our women's health patients.

Don't Wait — Book an Assessment

If you've found something that concerns you, contact FXMed today. Home visit (see our what concierge medicine is)s available for women who prefer privacy. Early assessment is always the right decision.