Thank you for replying. 
 

Do they do all 3 as standard? The gp said I'd have an ultrasound and they'd biopsy if they noticed anything but it makes sense to do all of them. 
 

im not on the 2 week pathway so I think it's at least a 12 week wait unless I go private which I might do as I don't think I can carry on like this with that sort of a wait. 

Hi,

They don't always do all three. Sometimes, the consultant can tell from the shape, size or positioning of a lesion. Also they don't always do a masmmogram with younger people, because their breasts tend to be denser, so the images are not too clear. However, there is no hard and fast rule. If they feel that the breasts are not too dense they can still carry out a mammogram in a younger person. It really makes sense to do at least the ultrasound and biopsy, just to be certain.

I just wanted to let you know to expect these other checks and not to panic by thinking that they'd found something. I agree that the worry is terrible. It is always tempting to go private, but that is a decision that only you can make. Remember that no amount of worry will change the outcome.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hi,

A biopsy doesn't always indicate something sinister. If there is a lump present, they usually biopsy it, as they cannot tell just by looking at it, whether it is benign or cancerous. Losing your appetite,being on edge, feeling nauseous, unable to sleep, or concentrate, are all emotions that hit us while we're waiting. You will find it easier once you know.

I have had 2 bouts of breast cancer in the past 13 years and I still lead a busy and fulfilling life, so even if the news is bad, there is still light at the end of the tunnel.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Thank you. Silly, inconsequential question but can I still shave? I don't know if I should just leave my arm pits hairy incase I cause it to become irritated. I am trying not to touch it and cause myself even more anxiety. 

Hi,

I am not a doctor, so this is just my personal opinion. If the skin is now intact, I don't see any problem with shaving. However, if you want to make sure, why not give one of the nurses on this forum a call and ask them? They are available from Mon-Fri, from 9.00am- 5.00pm. Their freephone number is: 0808 800 4040.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hi again

When I had my lump, I still shaved (very carefully!), but I usually just rub some antiseptic cream around the lump area, just to make sure no bacteria gets into the hair follicle again.

But as Jolamine says, if at all worried, double check with the nurses.

Regards

Marie

Thank you. I might just leave them as it'll only be for my own modesty x 

Hi All,

AMAZING NEWS !!! All ok, had an examination and ultrasound, they said all ok. Although they didn't do the whole area, just really the lump. But taking that as a win. However, due to family history will be able to have mammograms from 40 years old, due to family history.

Thank you to everyone for all the support!!

xx

Amazing!! So pleased for you xxx