Hi Tia, I’m definitely not an expert in this type of thing but, for what it’s worth, I recently had a mammogram & was told I have naturally lumpy boobs but nothing to worry about.  I also have a friend who had persistent pain in the side of her breast for a while and after various check ups was told that there was nothing to worry about.  I hope the results of your check ups are all good.  Try not to worry in the meantime x

Hi,

I also have lumpy boobs, lots of fibroadenomas, and while they arent anything to actually worry about, still gotta get them checked out any time a new lump is found, just to stay on the safe side. I also have breast pain, so far I don't know the cause of it but I've been told by doctors not to worry, and that breast pain is usually the least likely symptom to turn out to be cancerous.

In my experiences, the breast clinics are great and do their best to set you at ease. You'll be seen by the specialist, who will usually do a breast exam and then will send you through for an ultrasound scan on your breasts if they feel lumps. The scans are very thorough, you can watch the screen if you like, its quite interesting. They can find lumps you don't detect through a self exam so it always puts my mind at ease that they've spotted and made note of every lump they find. They will tell you the results of this right there and then.

If there are any lumps which they want to check out, maybe a little larger or a funny shape, they might decide to do a core biopsy. They look much worse than they are! They numb the area so you don't feel a thing other than pressure, and theres a noise like a staple gun, but its completely fine. I've had about 6 core biopsies at this point and other than being a tiny bit sore when the numbing agent wore off, theyre completely fine.

Then you'll probably go back out to the waiting room before going back in to see the doctor, who might discuss with you what the next steps might be. The biopsies can take a week or so to come back, so they might tell you to schedule another appointment or they might send you out a letter. 

I hope your appointment goes well,

-S

Hi both,

Thank you so much for replying. 

Im just very anxious. It’s good to know that others are going through/ have gone through the same. 

SarahLou thank you for going through the breast clinic, you have really eased my mind. 

Im trying my best to keep calm and my mind occupied! 

TIA xx

Hi Jengee, I know how difficult it is. My experience of the 'fast track' breast clinic is that expect it to be fast, so you might feel a little bit overwhelmed, but if you do just say and chances are someone will get you a cuppa or hold your hand - they are extremely kind and understanding. My experience was I was diagnosed within two hours of arrival - unbelievably lucky to have had full force of NHS on my side. 

Chances are you won't have cancer, but would recommend taking someone with you for support as you might feel a bit wobbly with stress and necessary tests. Good luck.

I accompanied my wife to a breast care clinic 2 week referral last week. Everyone was really nice and very caring. She had an examination, an ultrasound scan and a mammogram, all within the space of an hour. Within another 30 minutes the mammogram results were back and checked, and fortunately she had the all clear.  All done and dusted within 90 minutes. 

Thank you all for your replies.

Im glad that you do get to know some results the same day. 

My mind is working overtime. I am a therapist myself, but my rational mind is been overtaken somewhat.

You have all made me feel so much better about things.

My partner is coming with me and has been fantastic through this whole thing. It’s just nice to hear from people who have experienced going through this.

Hi Jengee, you strike a cord with me that your mind goes into overdrive and rational thinking takes a back seat, try as you might. But it is a perfectly normal reaction to a stressful situation and you are doing all the right things by preparing yourself for your appointment, as regards what to expect and support. Good luck.x