I have been recalled for a second assessment after a routine mammogram. I am 46, having been called as part of the new initiative to increase the screening ages in our area form 47 to 73. Apparently I’m a rising 47, which did make me laugh, just for a moment , you understand.
Now of course, I have to go back. I was very uncomfortable during the first experience, I think because my breasts are fairly large and all the compression was not very nice. Can anyone tell me what to expect in the second round? I’ve read it will involve more mammograms/ultrasounds, an exam by a doctor and possibly a biopsy. Does it always involve all three, or is one dependent on the view of the previous test, if you see what I mean.
Oh dear, I don’t really know why I’m posting, except to say that I got the letter on Friday, and I really can’t think about anything else. My next appointment is on Friday this week, and I feel really afraid.
I know this sounds really pathetic, as many of you are going through treatment and have been facing much worse, having read through some stories, I am in awe of all of you, but any advice or stories that you can tell me might lighten the load at the moment.
Thanks in advance, and sorry for being such a woose.
Welcome to the Breast Cancer Care discussion forums, you’ll find here a wealth of support from the many informed users of this site.
While you are waiting for replies I have put for you below the link to one of BCC’s publications - ‘Referral to a breast clinic’ which I hope will help you understand the procedure that is most likely to take place at your next hospital visit. You can either download this publication or order one to be posted out to you free of charge, as are all BCC’s publications. If you would like to talk to someone in confidence then the helpline staff are here to support you, calls are free, 0808 800 6000, lines open Mon-Fri 9-5 and Sat 9-2.
It is an awful time and try as you might your brain goes into overdrive, I did have all three second time around but I’m the opposite have small breasts, so my tumours because they were very deep could not be seen on the us, the staff etc are very kind and do try to relax you!
There was a lot of waiting, I was there for 5 and 1/2 hours so be prepared.
Hopefully your results will be fine, there is always someone here you can talk to, take care and the best of luck for Fri xx
Katytc, I hope things are working out well for you ! 5 and a half hours is a very long wait. I guess it’s all a bit of a waiting game. Thank you both for your replies. I will have to try to be patient till Friday !!
Thank you so much for all the advice and encouragement on the forum. I had my visit today and apparently all I have is a whole lot of cysts…since it was my first visit, they had nothing to compare with. So I can breathe a huge enormous sigh of relief.
Everyone here will remain in my thoughts and prayers, I am humbled by my experience knowing that there are so many brave women out there dealing with difficult diagnoses and decisions.