World Breastfeeding Week is observed every year from from August 1 to August 7. The week aims to raise awareness about breastfeeding, its importance and how it impacts the health of mother and child. A lot of mother refrain from breastfeeding their child, however, the World Health Organisation (WHO) says that it is important to breastfeed a baby for at least six months. This provides the baby with all the nutrients that are essential for the growth and development of the baby.

A lot of mothers who breastfeed their children face challenges in breastfeeding due to the formation of lumps in the breast. This can happen due to several reasons. Here, take a look at the causes of lumps in breasts of breastfeeding women.

When milk is not properly drained from a duct, it can cause a blockage. This leads to localized swelling, which shows up as a lump. Blocked ducts are usually painful and can be reduced by breastfeeding or pumping out milk frequently.

This is an infection of the breast tissue which causes pain in the breast, swelling, warmth and redness. It usually happens when a blocked milk duct is not cleared. The infection can cause a hard, painful lump and one might need antibiotics for treatment.

This happens when the breasts become overly full with milk. Engorgement can cause the breasts to feel hard, tight and lumpy. It usually happens in the early days of breastfeeding or if feeding sessions are missed. Frequent breastfeeding or pumping can alleviate engorgement.

These are milk-filled cysts that develop when a milk duct is blocked. They are benign and usually not painful, however, they can feel like a soft, movable lump in the breast. Galactoceles usually resolve on their own or it might require aspiration.

If a mastitis infection is not treated, it can lead to an abscess. This is a collection of pus within the breast tissue. An abscess feels like a hard, painful lump and often requires drainage by a healthcare professional.

This condition wherein there is an injury to the breast tissue which leading to the death of fat cells. The damaged tissue forms a lump, which can be mistaken for a more serious condition. Fat necrosis is usually benign and resolve on its own.

Hormonal changes during breastfeeding can cause the breasts to develop fibrous tissue and cysts. These changes can lead to lumpy and tender breasts. Although fibrocystic changes are benign, they can be uncomfortable and sometimes require medical evaluation.

Though rare in breastfeeding mothers, it is still a possible cause of a lump in the breast. Breast cancer can be present as a painless and hard lump with irregular edges. Other signs might include changes in breast shape, skin dimpling, nipple retraction or discharge. If yuo see any persistent lump, you should get it evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out malignancy.

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