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Mammogram recall

Mrsd310317
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Hi, I have just had a recall from my mammogram, it's only my third one as I am 43 and started them early due to family history. What I wanted to ask was would they write on the letter if they were planning on doing a biopsy? It just says X-ray and ultrasound and a biopsy petrifies me as well as the obvious potential results. I can't stop shaking and have to wait 3 more days for this recall appointment. Any advice would be gratefully received. 

  • Hello, and thanks for your post,

    I am afraid I can't say whether they will do a biopsy or not. It is not unusual to be recalled back particularly if the images are not clear. Sometimes an X-ray and ultrasound produce clearer images in younger women's breasts. If they do see an area that they are concerned about then they may want to do a biopsy but do try and keep an open mind if you can. 

    Breast Cancer Now has some information about why some women are recalled which you can see here

    Try to keep yourself busy and your mind on other things whilst you are waiting.

    If you would like to chat this through with one of the nurses on the helpline then you are welcome to get back to us.

    Our Freephone number is 0808 800 4040 and we are here Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

    Best wishes,

    Catherine

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    Hi there,

    Please try not to worry,I know its easier said than done...from my own experience they tend to do everything at the appointment I've had 2 biopsies and both were not as bad as I thought they would be...hope it goes ok for you 

    Sending hugs 

    Xxx

  • Offline in reply to Bella-ella

    Thanks so much for your replies. Sorry for being over specific but would they schedule the appointment on the letter for 'biopsy' or is this only decided once at the appointment and after scans?

    I've not got long to wait now but still going absolutely out of my mind with worry. Stupid I know but my mum's had BC twice and I just don't think the odds are in my favour. I am just not ready for this.

  • Offline in reply to Mrsd310317

    I think they will decide on the biopsies on the day once they have done a scan, thats what they did with me on both occasions....xx

  • Offline in reply to Mrsd310317

    Hi Mrsd, I had the same experience as Bella-ella. They did an ultrasound scan first to decide whether or not they needed to do a biopsy. The biopsy did not hurt - strange sensation but no pain for me (there are different types of biopsy I think). A decision to do a biopsy does not necessarily mean you have cancer either. All the best for the appointment xx

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    I just wanted to update this for anyone 'googling' DO NOT GOOGLE. My recall was really not for anything specific, I have dense breasts and they wanted to take some more 3D images as the 2D ones aren't great and I only had an ultrasound too as I have 3 benign cysts which are completely normal. I feel very lucky and a bit stupid but the recall letter did not help my anxiety at all and the doctor actually apologised as she knows the letters are not great. So I will be better prepared in future should I receive another recall but most important DO NOT PANIC, it literally could be and usually is, nothing. Thanks to those who replied to my original post. Most important thing is, never miss a mammogram or a recall. 

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