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Lactation Information and Discussion

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Subject:
From:
"Lisa A. Marasco" <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Wed, 22 Mar 1995 12:34:46 -0800
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In one of my classes last year, I heard a cancer specialist discuss
breasts, breastfeeding and lumps. One of the biggest questions that I
have always had was how to know which lumps are "normal" during lactation
and which ones should be worried about. While I will never be casual
with any mother regarding persistent lumps, he did share some guidelines
that I found to be very helpful and reassuring:

In palpating the lump, check the symmetry, the roundness, the rootedness.
Is it fairly round, or is it irregular in shape? Is it symmetrical, or
oddly shaped? Does it move as you probe, or does it seem "rooted" and
unyielding to the touch? Cancerous lumps are most often irregular,
unsmooth, and very rooted to the breast, whereas benign lumps are smooth,
more round in shape, and will "float" or move as you explore them. I keep
these guidelines in my mind when I take calls or check out the occasional
lump. Most of the time it is a plugged duct, and I give the usual
instructions on how to clear it. But I do always ask the mothers to call
me back if it doesn't clear up, and refer them to their ob-gyn when there
is a question here.

-Lisa

Lisa A. Marasco, IBCLC
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant
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