Confused???!!!

[beachy]

Hi, about 6 weeks ago, i found my right breast had a thickening on it, i went to my doctor, & was sent to a rapid assessment clinic. I had a mammogram (i am 35 years old) which came back clear, i also had a quick physical examination, which the dr said he could feel anything.  I went back to my doctor last week, & she felt the lump, she said she "thinks" it might be a cyst, but this week after starting my period, the lump has changed again to the thickening, which feels about 6 cms by 4 cms when i measure it.... Has anyone ever heard of thickenings changing into lumps then back again??? When it is a lump, it is almost like a flattish lump, not like a ball if that makes any sense?? BTW there is no pain associated with this lump/thickening... I have another apointment at the breast clinic next week, but the waiting is awful... any insight or help would be appreciated
Thank you

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear beachy, A lump can change at different times during a person's menstrual cycle - with hormone variations.  A change in size going from large to small and back is less suspicious that the lump would be due to a cancer problem.  However, seeing as this is a new finding, following through with the evaluation to be sure of a diagnosis, as you are doing, is a good idea.

[surgeon]

things which change back and forth are unlikely to be cancer. Cysts, or cystic areas, can certainly change with one's cycle. However, since this is still a new and undiagnosed finding, it's good that you are continuing to follow up.