Advice needed about finding a lump

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Hi all, i’ve been reading some of the stories on here and I’d first like to say that all of you women are such inspirations and i admire you greatly.

Basically, I’m 17 and about 7 weeks ago i found a fairly large lump in my left breast. I have never really checked my breasts but after going out for a run i felt a bit of discomfort. My mother, her two sisters (my blood related aunties) and my grandmother have had breast cancer- most around the age of 40. The one aunty unfortunatley lost her battle two years ago. I’m not sure of the breast cancer history beyond my grand mother as i haven’t really asked.

Anyway i informed my mum and she said it was most likely a cyst but i should get it checked out because of the history. I went to the GP and she said the lump was fairly large but was presumably a cyst because at the time i was menstruating and there was pain in and around the lump. Following procedure i’ve been booked in for an appointment at the local breast clinic and my app is on the 6th of June.

I’ve decided not to worry myself as i think there is no point in upsetting myself over something that might not even be there. However i ‘finished’ my period and the lump failed to go down. The pain decreased and in the weeks between i ignored it. Now menstruating again the pain is quite considerable throughout my left breast. I was wondering if this was common? Also, the tissue around my lump has started to feel quite firm but i am unsure whether this is related to my current hormone levels?

Also lastly (sorry the post is so long) i’m having an ultrasound and i’m not sure what to expect. If it is cysts filled with fluid, will they drain them then and there? And if it is something more concerning will i have to wait further to have more tests or will it be done on the same day?

Thanks

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Hi,

Sorry to hear that you are going through this worrying time, but you have done the right thing in getting a referral to a clinic.

When I went to the clinic I saw a nurse first who gave me an examination and confirmed where the lump was, as well as checking for anything else, I then went through for an ultrasound, where they saw the lump on the screen, and an enlarged lymph node which I hadn’t felt. They then did a mammogram of both breasts to check for anything else. I then went back into the ultrasound room where they did a core biopsy, and took a sample from the lump and the lymph node. I think if it is a cyst this is the point where they drain it with a hollow needle. Although my lump was bad news my lymph was clear even though it was enlarged.

I think some clinics can give you the results the same day, I had to wait a few days for mine.

There is some information on referral to a breast clinic at the link below, you can download a booklet which might help

breastcancercare.org.uk/breast-cancer-breast-health/worried/referral-to-a-breast-clinic/

I’d also advise giving the helpline call in the morning.
The not knowing is the worst bit.
Fingers crossed that everything goes well for you.

Jen