Benign tumors, also called fibroadenomas, are the most common tumors in younger women.

There is usually no pain associated with fibroadenomas. The tumors feel solid and round and can enlarge with pregnancy and breast-feeding. Depending on the size of the tumor, your doctor may recommend removal.

These tumors are not malignant and do not change into a malignancy. They are not associated with an increased risk for cancer. Approximately 20% of young women will have more than one of these tumors sometimes at the same time, sometimes on multiple occasions.

A tumor similar in apprearance is a phylcodes tumor. These are more common near menopause. These may have malignant behavior by invading tissue and spreading to other organs and should always be removed.