Glandular breast

I am looking advice from anyone that can offer it really. For around 3 months I have had a pain in my left breast, it started out as a heavy feeling that I put down to hormones but has since become very tender. Today  I called my gp just to check if it was anything to be concerned about and after an examination she said that my left breast is very glandular and tender to the left side and behind the nipple.. has anyone been told this before im confused as to what it means? She referred me to the breast clinic but said because there isn't a definitive lump and due to my age (25) it will take months. 

  • Hi and thanks for the post

    It's not unusual for some people to have what's called 'glandular' or 'lumpy' breasts - The breasts are made up of glandular and fatty tissue and people in their 20s and 30s tend to have dense breast  tissue -  this can tend to feel lumpy compared with more fatty tissue.

    This is why mammograms are not done in people under the age of 40 , as it's more difficult interpreting results due to very dense breasts. Ultrasounds would usually be done instead if needed.

    Breast cancer is uncommon in someone of your age , though I can appreciate that it's difficult not knowing what may be causing your symptoms. Hormonal changes can cause tender, painful breasts and there is some information about that here  

    Keep an eye on things and do go back to the GP if you notice any other changes you are unsure of .It's hard waiting for an appointment , you can try asking to be put on a waiting list if there is a cancellation, or although costly, you can ask to be referred privately.

    I hope you don't have to wait too long

    All the best

    Wanda