Dear DOLLY, I have this vein on the top of my breast and it wasn't there two months ago. It doesn’' hurt or anything, I'm just worried it could be something like breast cancer. Please help me, I don't want to go to the doctor or anything.
Samantha, NZ
As your breasts grow in size during puberty, so do the veins and other blood vessels and nerves around them. If you have fair skin, veins can appear more visible as well.
As long as you are sure it's a vein, and it is not causing any discomfort, it's nothing to worry about - it's certainly very unlikely that it's any sort of breast tumour or cancer.
It's natural for many teenagers not to want to go to the doctor, especially to discuss personal issues and "private" body parts. However, if you really are worried then there's nothing better than getting a check up and the reassurance you're looking for.
Doctors are very used to discussing and examining sensitive areas and can see you confidentially. On the other hand, why don't you start by telling your mum what you've just told me, it's very likely that she'll be able to give you the reassurance you need.
