Whatever age you are, if you have had breast cancer or a pre-invasive breast disease you will need regular follow-up to make sure that if breast cancer comes back it can be found and treated promptly. Your regular follow-up will include regular mammograms and/or ultrasound and a physical examination of your breasts by the doctor.
For more information about the recommended follow-up tests for you click on one of the links below:
If you are at higher risk of breast cancer for some other reason, such as a family history of breast cancer, you might also need an individual program of regular tests. Talk to your doctor about any concerns or questions you have about your risk of breast cancer and the appropriate tests for you.
Breast awareness
Regardless of what other tests you are having, it’s important that you are aware of the normal look and feel of your breasts. Getting to know what is normal for you will help you recognise new or unusual breast changes. If you do notice any new or unusual changes in your breast see your doctor as soon as possible. This is important even if you are having regular mammograms.
Breast awareness means looking at your breasts and feeling them regularly, maybe while you’re showering or dressing. This should only take a few minutes. You don’t have to use any special method or do it at any particular time of the month (although some women prefer to do it after their menstrual period when their breasts are less lumpy and less tender). Some women prefer to use a structured approach for the examination of their breasts.
Although there’s no ‘right way’ to check your breasts, you might find the following tips helpful.
- Look at your breasts and nipples in the mirror
and check for:
- a change in the size or shape of your breast or nipple
- a change in the skin over your breast such as redness or dimpling
- a nipple discharge
- Feel your breasts, remembering to feel up to
your collarbone, below your bra-line and under your armpit and
check for:
- a new lump or lumpiness especially if it is in one breast
- You should also report any unusual persistent pain, especially if it is in one breast.
