Concern for partner

Hello all, 

my girlfriend has been experiencing itchy breasts for a couple of weeks out of the blue. 
 

we haven't changed washing detergent or materials etc. 

My girlfriend has large breasts so I am always checking them regularly for bumps. There does appear to be a tightness in the left breast but it is very tiny and I am sure nothing to worry about. 

She is always very anxious about her breasts & really struggles with any kind of check up, it can take a couple of weeks before she calms down after building up to get checked. 

How do I raise the situation with her without coming across dramatised/ causing a panic? & is there someone outside of the NHS that can check this for her? The doctors are a nightmare to get an appointment with

 

thank you for any advice/ help.  

  • Hi Brighteyes92 and thanks for posting.

    Itchiness of the breast is not normally a sign of cancer, it is more often due to other things such as eczema, inflammation (called mastitis) or an allergy. 

    However it is always a good idea to get anything checked out that isn't usual for you, so if you have noticed a difference it would be good to talk to your girlfriend about it.  Lots of people feel very anxious about their health.  It can be helpful to remember that it is more likely to be something other than cancer, and to say this to your girlfriend.  There is some information here, which you both may find helpful about ways to manage anxiety about health issues.

    We are hearing lots of people say they are finding it difficult to get an appointment with their GP, but do try.  It is possible to get a breast check up privately.  You can look on www.privatehealth.co.uk/ to find local clinics and doctors that offer this.

    I hope this is helpful but please do get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You might like to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Rachel