Waiting for breast clinic appointment...so difficult

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Hi,

Just found this website today and it’s given me a lift reading about a whole community of women going through similiar experiences, supporting each other.

I have a 5 week old  baby and noticed a hard, painless lump which appears to be fixed to my chest wall. Thought it was a blocked milk duct/mastitis initially. -Been to GP and have received appointment for breast lump clinic next week.

 

I’m actually a doctor myself and I’m devestated at the idea that this could be cancer. Because I’ve some experience of examining breast lumps in patients, I’ve convinced myself it’s a sinister lump. It’s so difficult looking at my new daughter and it breaks my heart the thought of not being able to see her grow up. Everytime I look at my partner I feel so sorry for him having to be a single parent raising a child. Funny how you just think the worst case scenario!

 

The waiting game is so difficult. Distraction is the key. Sometimes I wish I was back at work and not on maternity leave, its hard to keep my mind distracted. Thinking of you all and sending positive thoughts. x

 

 

 

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Hi Kate,
The thoughts you describe are common to all of us at this stage & inevitably the mind goes into overdrive & immediately jumps to the worst conclusion.
Just to offer some reassurance, honestly, the vast majority of women with your symptoms do report the all clear, it is the most usual outcome.
There is no magic wand in dealing with the wait, but you’re absolutely right about distraction, it will get resolved.
I’m an nhs pro too, but it makes no difference to how it makes you feel, even if you are on the inside, so to speak.
If you want to, do let us know how you get on.
ann x

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Thanks so much for replying Ann And your kind words of support xx

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Hi Kate, 

I’m sorry to hear you’re going through this worry, we know how hard the uncertainty can be and glad you’re finding the Forum a helpful place to be. 

We’ll be thinking of you at the appointment next week. 

Take care, 

Becca at Breast Cancer Care. 

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Hi Kate, just sending you a big hug, and lots of positive thoughts. Everyone here knows what you are going through. The very very best wishes for your journey. X

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Hi Katie, I know how you feel. I found a lump in my left breast & am waiting for my appointment at the breast clinic on 4th July. I’m trying to carry on as normal & not look worried in front of my family ( I’ve got 2 daughters aged 7 & 9) but inside I’m a total bag of nerves.
I’ve been referred before for a different lump which turned out to be a build up of tissue & in that referral appointment they did a scan straight away & gave me the all clear, but for this appointment they said they will only examine me & I’ll have to go back for any tests. This seems to make the worry worse in my mind.
I’ve read through quite a few of these threads & there seems to be a lot of wise women on here able to offer support & advice.I hope that we both get the all clear but if not we’re in it together x