The breasts do not typically have a smooth consistency.

• Lumpiness of the breasts is quite common and tends to increase with advancing age.
  
  
• It may be secondary to fibrocystic changes.
  
  By examining her own breasts the woman will know how her breasts feel normally and can tell if any changes have occurred in her physical exam.
  
  The best time for breast self examination is about a week after the end of the menstrual period when the breasts are not as likely to be tender.

Copyright 2000