Hi,

I was referred also to breast clinic and my appointment is on Thursday. They have sent me a booklet today that explains the process. The one that I am going to is a one stop clinic by the looks of it - despite it being at the sister hospital to the usual one. I think they will do an examination, then either ultrasound/mammogram or both (if they decide it is needed) and then could do a core biopsy. On the flow chart it looks like you return to the clinic to discuss the results of the scans but the biopsy results (if needed) either come through the post or they schedule an appointment. 

Hope that helps.

Lou x

Hey there,

The referral for screening is a standard procedure for any breast changes :) They aim to see you within two weeks of referral. I think I visited my GP and had a phonecall two days later, for an appointment exactly two weeks to the day from my GP appointment.

The screening itself was a one stop shop. You should be assessed by a consultant who will then decide what kinds of tests to run - you could have an ultrasound, mammogram, needle biopsy or all of the above. I was nervous about the needle biopsy in particular but they use a local anaesthetic so it doesn't hurt. I had all the tests and I would say I was at the clinic for about an hour in total including the waiting inbetween. 

After that it's the waiting game again to hear your results. I think the wait varies from place to place.

I've found it really helpful to post on this forum and talk to other people in similar situations, and see that everyone feels the same worries. Hopefully knowing what to expect at the screening will help ease your anxieties a bit.

Steph