Scared my Fibroadenoma is something else

I am a 24 year old woman.

A lump in my left breast started becoming painful in early April of this year, but had already been present and slightly tender to the touch for a couple of months before that. I suspected at first that it was my lymph nodes, but a few months after it became so painful and didn't go away I went to see my GP to get it checked out. 

The GP "fast track" referred me for suspected breast cancer, but was told it was more likely than not that no cancer would be present. I had 2 appointments with the breast clinic in the hospital; the first time one of the nurses checked and the other I had an ultrasound. The person doing the ultrasound said it looked like a Fibroadenoma (19mm x 9.5mm smooth lesion), and told me I could have surgery to remove it if it was too painful. 

Now, I'm currently set to have an appointment regarding surgery in the new year but the pain has just continued on. I have days when I hardly feel it but also many days where it feels like a 7-8 on the pain scale; a massive stabbing pain, sometimes shooting pain, always tender even if not touched or around the time of my period. 

I've been back to the GP because on those very bad days no amount of ibuprofen/paracetamol can touch the pain I'm in. I'd been prescribed Naproxen at one point but had to stop taking it due to the side effects. I've now been prescribed Codeine, and I can't say that is making much difference either but without it I feel I'm left in an amount of pain I can't wait to have relieved.

Everywhere I read, the main point I come across is that Fibroadenomas aren't painful and I'm having trouble identifying my symptoms with others while in search for answers/pain relief. I guess I'm scared that it will turn out to be something more dangerous to my health, and need someone who either has a Fibroadenoma and can confirm this pain I'm experiencing is valid or someone qualified who can quiet my worried thoughts with answers.

Thank you.

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry you are in so much pain with your fibroadenoma. This must be a worrying time for you.

    Most fibroadenomas do not cause pain but some can especially if they are larger. Breast Cancer Now has further information about this on their website

    In the meantime, do speak again to your doctor if your current painkillers are not managing the pain.

    As you've been seen by the breast care team in the breast clinic, it's important to say if there were any concerns about cancer this would have been discussed with you and you would have been sent for more investigations.

    I hope things improve for you soon. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene

  • Thank you Celene. You have helped put my mind at ease a little. The further information you linked was also much appreciated.