Breast Cancer Screening

Breast screening aims to find breast cancers early. It uses an X-ray test called a mammogram that is able to spot cancers located in the breast when they are too small to see or feel.

Preparing for a Breast Cancer Screening Test:

When you attend your breast screening test, you will be asked to undress down to your waist, including removing your bra. It is best to wear a skirt or trousers and a top. A radiographer will help to position each breast between two flat X-ray plates. This can be a little painful, but is usually only for a few seconds as the X-ray picture is taken. In some women, the pain may persist for a short time afterwards. Two X-rays are taken of each breast (one from above and one into the armpit diagonally across the breast). The whole appointment usually takes about 30 minutes.

The result of your test will be sent to your GP: Results generally take about one day.