Hello and thanks for your post

I’m sorry that you are worried about a breast lump and the stress it is causing you.

The majority of people who are referred urgently to the breast clinic are usually seen within 2 weeks. But many people are having to wait much longer than this as clinics are trying to deal with the backlog due to staff shortages in the NHS. But they are trying to see patients as quickly as possible. I appreciate waiting any length of time when you are worried is very stressful. However, it is unlikely that waiting this time will change your situation by very much.

You could try and contact the breast clinic and ask if you could go on a cancellation list and they may contact you if a slot suddenly becomes available at short notice. But unfortunately this is not guaranteed.

The organisation Breast Cancer Now has information on what to expect when you’ve been referred to a breast clinic and you can read this information by clicking here.

I hope everything turns out to be okay. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful 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.

Best wishes,

Celene