Hi Zoe.

I had similar symptoms, my left breast was very heavy,  very dense and breast pain over a few months. I didn't have any raised lymph nodes but my breasts were randomly feeling engorged and 'lactating' (i have 2 children I breastfed, aged 5 and 6). I do however have generally quite lumpy boobs, my left especially, so it's not hugely unusual for me except the pain and 'lactation'.

I went to my GP and she was brilliant, she referred me straight away on the 2 weeks pathway, warning me it may be 3 weeks, but I actually ended up being seen in one week! So I was really lucky. I am in the Midlands, but I know timescales do vary.

I agree with Jamie90 though, if you can take someone with you then I would advise you do. Even if your clinic doesn't allow people in, have someone waiting outside.

I went by myself, to be honest I was expecting to be in and out quickly (I have been to the breast clinic once before, around 18 months ago, that time I was there half hour and saw a nurse, had an ultrasound and left feeling like I'd wasted their time!). However this time my experience was much different. I saw a doctor to start, not a nurse. I had an ultrasound, then was told they needed to do a mammogram, then do 2 biopsies and put in markers, then another mammogram. So I was there over 3 hours. I did get tearful as I didn't expect to have all that. And whilst the biopsies were OK due to local anaesthetic, I already had breast pain before I started and so I did feel a little battered and bruised. And driving home on my own like that, whilst feeling upset, wasn't ideal. So if you can get someone to be there with you I would recommend it.

Also,  as Jamie has said, and other people on the forum mention quite a lot, if they suspect something like cancer, they may well tell you there and then at the first appointment, and that's a huge lot to deal with on your own!

While you wait try and stay calm, I know it's easier said than done. I don't have the end to my process yet as my results aren't until Thursday, but I will make sure I update for anyone who may want to know. However, remember all stories are different, and one person's symptoms, even if they match yours, may not have the same result.

Good luck, I hope your wait is not too long xx

Please keep me updated, wishing you all the luck in the world and I hope it's nothing x

Please keep me updated, wishing you all the luck in the world and I hope it's nothing x