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Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in the breast tissue. Cysts naturally occur as the breast ages and changes.
Cysts are most common in women between 35 and the onset of the menopause, but are less so after the menopause, however breast cysts can develop at any age and many women develop cysts without knowing about them.
Near the surface cysts feel soft, deeper into the breast tissue cysts become hard lumps. Cysts can develop anywhere in the breast. However, they are more commonly found in the upper half. Some women find cysts to be uncomfortable, even painful. Before a period cysts may become larger, and feel sore and tender.
Cysts usually become noticeable as a lump in the breast, or are sometimes found by chance when you have a breast examination or routine breast screening.
Your GP may say whether the lump feels like a cyst, however they are likely to refer you to a breast clinic where tests will give more information.
These tests are likely to include a breast examination and a mammogram or ultrasound scan.
Ultrasounds are useful for women under 35 whose breast tissue is often too dense for a clear mammogram image.
If you do have a breast cyst or cysts you won’t usually need any further treatment or follow up. Many cysts go away by themselves and are nothing to worry about.
If the cyst is large and causing discomfort, or doesn’t go away on its own, your specialist will draw off the fluid using a fine needle and syringe. Once the fluid has been drawn off the cyst usually disappears.
Fluid from the cyst can vary in appearance, from clear to very dark. Only if it is bloodstained will it be sent to a laboratory for testing as there’s a small risk that this may be a sign of breast cancer.
It is normal for cysts to come back, refill or for you to develop new ones. If this happens visit your GP to have it checked.
If a cyst continually refills, a surgical biopsy may become an option to permanently remove it. This can be done under local or general anaesthetic so you may be in hospital for the day or overnight.
Having a breast cyst does not increase your risk of developing breast cancer. However, it’s still important to be breast aware and go back to your GP if you think your cyst has come back or if you notice any other changes in your breasts.