Women should be encouraged to do self breast exams through out pregnancy and lactation. 

During pregnancy, the breast increases in size, weight, vascular, and density, so it can be difficult to detect masses during lactation, it is even more difficult.  It is best to examine your breast after feeding or expressing milk, and to report any changes to the midwife.  lumps are not uncommon during lactation, and may signal a plugged duct, cancer or nothing at all, but the important thing is to recognize any change.  If there are changes that you are concerned about, call our office and speak to the midwife or schedule a clinical breast exam.