Final answer:
Estrogen and progesterone fluctuations can cause benign breast lumps, especially during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. It is important for women to perform a monthly breast self-exam to detect any changes early. Hormonal changes during menopause and use of hormonal birth control can also affect breast tissue.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the different phases of the menstrual cycle, particularly the secretory phase, the breast tissue is sensitive to hormonal fluctuations including changes in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormonal changes can cause breast tenderness, swelling, and sometimes the development of lumps. However, most breast lumps that occur due to hormonal changes are benign and resolve on their own. That being said, not all breast lumps are harmless, and performing a monthly breast self-exam is important for early detection of abnormalities that could indicate breast cancer. During the menopausal transition, levels of estrogen and progesterone can lead to conditions like uterine fibroids and endometrial hyperplasia, which are non-cancerous but should be monitored due to potential associated risks. Additionally, hormonal birth control methods, which provide constant levels of hormones, can also cause changes in the breast tissue.
It is essential for individuals to be aware of their own breast tissue and to report any new lumps to a healthcare provider, as the outcome for breast cancer is much better when it is detected and treated early.