Dear Anne
I'm 14, and my breasts are quite painful. It hurts when I touch my nipples and around the edges of the breasts. Inside there is a really large hard lump in each. Please reply as I don't know if I have cancer or something. Thanks. Luci
Dear Luci
Thanks for your letter. Breasts are often painful when they're growing. Even the friction of a bra or T-shirt can make them quite sore, so you are not alone in this. Rest assured that this wears off in time!
As for the lumps in them, they are almost certainly your milk glands and the ducts that will take the milk to the nipple if you have a child. Your breasts may not be exactly the same size either, as very few people's are. The chance of your having cancer is extremely remote but it is always best to go and see the doctor if you are concerned. You can ask for a woman doctor or see the practice nurse. I'm sure they'll be able to allay your anxieties.
I wish you the best of health and happiness.
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