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Breast changes

A breast change is any change in the breast from what is usual for a particular woman. Many women experience a variation in breast size or tenderness during their menstrual cycle, usually caused by fluctuations in the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Breast changes are common before menopause and during pregnancy and include:

  • Breast pain.
  • Breast lumps.
  • Nipple changes and discharge.
  • Changes in the skin, shape, or size of a breast.
  • Signs of a breast infection, such as redness, swelling, and tenderness.
By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Revised January 20, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: January 20, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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