[Original article on NHS Choices website]

The first symptom of breast cancer most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in their breast.

Most breast lumps (90%) aren’t cancerous, but it’s always best to have them checked by your doctor.

You should see your GP if you notice any of the following:

a new lump or area of thickened tissue in either breast that was not there before

a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts

bloodstained discharge from either of your nipples

a lump or swelling in either of your armpits

dimpling on the skin of your breasts

a rash on or around your nipple

a change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast

Breast pain isn’t usually a symptom of breast cancer.

Want to know more?

Breast Cancer Care: changes to look and feel for

Breast Cancer Now: signs and symptoms of breast cancer

Cancer Research UK: breast cancer symptoms

Macmillan Cancer Support: signs and symptoms of breast cancer

Breast awareness

It’s important to be breast aware so you can pick up any changes as soon as possible.

Get to know what is normal for you – for instance, your breasts may look or feel different at different times of your life. This will make it much easier to spot potential problems.