Do I have fibrocystic breasts? A cyst?

[anglavern]

To start, I'm 22, and I have been experiencing some pain and sensitivity in my breasts over the past year at varying levels, worsening around my period, and it does seem to be affected by caffeine as well. I've been pretty paranoid about it, and I've actually had them checked by a doctor 2-3 times in the past year-- nothing found. However, just a day before my current period, I noticed a very small hard lump in my left breast. Maybe the size of a pea? It's pretty deep and just off center. Somewhat mobile, and it does hurt if pressed on. From what I have read it seems similar to fibrocystic breasts, but I am concerned it may be worse. Breast cancer does not run in my family. There is no discharge. Both breasts are somewhat painful. I plan to get it looked at if it doesn't go away by the end of my period, but I was looking for some peace of mind... How common is this? Could it be a cyst? Or does this sound more concerning?

[specialmom]

You are very young to be at this level of worry about breast cancer.  :>) They don't even recommend mammograms until the earliest age of 40.  While I do think you are over thinking things, you found a lump.  Go to the doctor to have that examined.  Breast tenderness around your period is completely normal and expected.  Nothing to do with breast cancer.  But no one on the internet will dismiss a lump.  I will say that when you are at the doctor, you should talk to them about anxiety.  This sounds like it makes you worry too often and could be related to anxiety as a mental health problem that will bleed over into other areas.  good luck