Breast changes occur in almost all women and can occur at different stages of a woman's life. The majority of these breast changes do not turn out to be cancer. However, some changes may be signs of cancer and all changes should be evaluated by a physician.

Some of the changes may include:

• Density changes– this is very common and may be due to glands in the breast tissue, may be thought of as lumpiness.
• Swelling from your period – swelling, tenderness, and pain may develop because of extra fluid in your breasts.
• Lumps – Some lumps are caused by normal hormone changes during your cycle and so a health care provider may suggest watching the lump for a month or so to see if/how it changes. The majority of lumps are not cancer, and are called benign. However, a lump that stays should be checked carefully. There are a couple of tests that should be considered to evaluate a lump. A mammogram, ultrasound or biopsy may be used to examine a lump. Any new lump should be checked.
• Nipple Discharge – This is common for some women. It may be different colors or textures. Usually, it is not a sign of cancer. Many medications may cause a little discharge. Certain infections also cause nipple discharge. However, for women who are going through or have passed menopause, nipple discharge can be a sign of cancer.

Methods to determine if a change is cancer.