I’m 19 years old and have just received a letter from the hospital telling me my appointment for the breast clinic is next Wednesday (22nd July). I was referred urgently after seeing my GP last Thursday (9th July). I’ve been getting pain in my left breast and armpit for the best part of a month, and discovered a lump in the same breast last Monday.
I’ve never attended a breast clinic before, so have no idea what to expect. The GP told me that I would most likely be having an ultrasound and possibly a biopsy, depending on what the ultrasound shows. The GP also said that, due to my age, I would most likely not be having a mammogram.
Others who have attended breast clinics, what can I expect? Roughly how long would the appointment take? I’m curious and, I must admit, kinda worried. Any advice/experiences would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Hannah,
Your anxiety is, of course totally normal. It’s such a stressful time for you but always remember that the majority of ladies have good news from breast clinics, not bad.
Write down any questions you have - you won’t remember them in the heat of the moment - and whoever you are taking with you, make sure they’re aware of what your concerns are so they can help.
You will probably discuss your history with a doctor before being examined and then sent for tests. You’re right, you probably won’t have a mammogram at your age since young breasts are too dense to get good pictures (me, jealous? YES!?). The ultrasound will tell if a biopsy is needed and although it all happens at the same time, do be prepared for long waits. Make sure you have something to read, eat and drink - if you don’t need them then bonus, but it’s awful to be bored and hungry on top of your anxiety but not wanting to risk missing your turn by going off to buy something!
My lab results were back a week later although many on here seem to take longer - that’s a whole new worry that hopefully you won’t have to go through but we’re tougher than we think and cope with what we have to.
Huge hugs,
Kitt
X
I second everything that Kitt said :smileyhappy: I wasn’t in the clinic very long, probably about an hour and a half. I saw a breast nurse first and she examined my lump. I then had an ultrasound and biopsy which is nothing to worry about! You have some local anaesthetic so you don’t feel anything; my advice would be not to look at the biopsy needle (my big mistake). It’s honestly nothing to worry about, the worst part for me was sitting in the corridor in one of those lovely gowns :smileyvery-happy: The main thing I remember from my appointment back in Feb was the lady doing the ultrasound telling me i’d grown a whopper lol! Try not to worry about it over the next few days, you’ll be ok Emily x
Hi mine was similar to others. In for about 1.5 hours, consultant examination, ultrasound, mammogram and biopsy. Def take list of Qs and someone with you. Husband asked things I forgot and was nice having someone there! Biopsy needle, yup its a biggie, but local anesthetic honestly made it fine. It does make a loud noise when grabbing a sample. If you do have a biopsy, I would suggest making sure you have plenty of paracetamol in. I was totally fine on day, but just sore / uncomfortable the next couple. Completely manageable, but would rather say it than not! The nurses / docs were lovely with me. Good luck for wed. X
Hi Hannah, I got my appointment through this morning, the hospital issued it the day after I saw the GP! Thinking of you for Wednesday I’m the following week ? xxx
