Breast Screening

[Ric.ror]

I have been sent an appointment for a mammogram but I have heard they are very painful particularly when you have large breasts
Can I opt for an ultrasound instead

Many thanks for any help

[ducksie]

The mammographer will guide you to stand in the correct position at the machine, once you're in place comfortably the mammogram is taken, only a few seconds, if that; of the presusure where the top panel of the machine holds you in firm to take the picture. I've been getting it done annually for 12 year and never had a problem. I hope the results you receive will be good and the experience not as bad as you are expecting.

[black_cat51]

i have had both mamogram and ultrasound of the breast, and would opt for mamogram

[Ric.ror]

Thank you all for your advice
Ill let you know on 12 Aug

[jennyjoan]

Hi Ric - just came across your posting. Please take it from a big coley (me) they are not even uncomfortable. Absolutely not.

[lucymac]

I have had it done. I am 40d size. It is bearable. Go for it.

[boxtops]

I've just seen this too - the new machines are very much less uncomfortable than the old ones. If it does hurt a bit, I'd rather have those few moments' discomfort than not know if there was a problem developing....

[jennyjoan]

A smear - I cannot get them done as I find them excruciatingly painful. My very first one was done by a hyper GP - she rushed me - couldn't get it done. Told me to get off the table - oh I have to give you a ST - why said I - I don't have my period right now - no she said - but I have ripped you a bit.

[askyourgran]

It doesn't take long and it isn't painful just uncomfortable for a few minutes. Only a few minutes of your time for peace of mind knowing you are clear.

[mrs.chappie]

Mine wasn't even uncomfortable, so I guess it must vary between different people.

[boxtops]

JJ - that's very unfortunate, you were unlucky, IMO. That's another screening that I would never have missed - it's so necessary.

[jennyjoan]

Boxy on top of them being painful - I really can't get over the embarrassment.

[ethandron]

A minute of embarrassment or uncomfortableness as opposed to potentially undiagnosed cancer? No contest, I really don't understand some people.

[237SJ]

I had one a while ago due to the family history. It wasn`t painful - just a bit uncomfortable. I spoke to a friend of mine who is quite flat chested and she said she hurt for about 3 days afterwards. I think it might be more painful when there isn`t so much breast tissue to squeeze into the machine.

[Ric.ror]

Oh I would advise everyone to get their smears done - I have had laser treatment for this and I'm guessing it saved me a lot of trouble in the long run

[boxtops]

I can't understand anyone being embarrassed by any of these procedures - they're undertaken by clinical staff who don't actually mind what you look like, they've seen it all!

[Ric.ror]

Well that's that then
Can't see what all the fuss was about
It's more awkward than uncomfortable
Seriously I wouldn't be bothered to go next time

Cheers all

[gness]

There you go, Ric......Well done......before long you'll be taking a picnic and making a day of it!....☺

[boxtops]

Exceelent, ric.ror - you should get your results in a couple of weeks, then they'll contact you again in three years' time :-)

[woofgang]

that's good Ric, now spread the word!

[boxtops]

I agree with woof - the more women who say that it's nothing to worry about, the fewer women might refuse to go!