External signs of Breast cancer?!

Hello I am Nineteen years old and have always felt embarressed about my nipples and afraid to talk about it.

I have tiny pink and brown bumps all over my nipple that ar times ache. I have been reading posts online and it seems similar bumps around the nipple can be an indicator of pregnancy. I am sexual active but I have been getting my period regularly and have had these bumps since puberty (maybe even before, can't really remember). Anyway, I have ignored this for a long time but can anyone (maybe who was diagnosed with creast cancer?) tell me if they noticed this in themselves?

Also, I don't have health insurance. Are there any free clinics common in big cities (I'm in Chicago) where I can get a breast exam no questions asked?

If you have read this, thank you for your time.

[zouzi]

Hi there,
These little bumps are called Montgomery glands which appear on the areolas (the brown part around your nipples) and have nothing to do with breast cancer.
Many teenagers and adult women have them.It's an normal part of a female anatomy and usually they become more prominent during pregnancy.These glands are sebaceous glands which produce an oily fluid secreted in small amount to keep the nipples and areolas lubricated.Some women have a few of these glands,while others can have as many as 20 or more.
These bumps should not be squeezed because it could lead to infection.
Since you seem to be worried about it,it would be a good idea to have your doctor examine you so that he/she can reassure you that nothing is wrong with your breasts health.Also the doctor might prescribe a medication to treat these glands if they are excessively prominent.
If you have no insurance, talk to your doctor to see if there is some way you can be examined and pay your bill on time.
Also you could call your local hospital and ask to speak to a social worker.He/she will be the one who’ll know about the availability of free or low-cost medical assistance in your community.
Take care....