Myth: All Lumps Are Cancer

Fortunately, not all lumps are cancer. But all lumps do need to be evaluated. The most common benign lumps are cysts, fluid-filled sacs, lumpy areas of tenderness that often occur when your period is about to start, and fibroadenomas, which feel like firm nodules but usually aren't painful. Your doctor may suggest a biopsy to be sure a lump is benign.