Notice a breast change? 4 things to tell your doctor about breast symptoms
Doctor Patient Conversation Guide
If it's your first well-woman exam, your 10th, or you're nervous about some changes you have felt in your breasts, this doctor conversation guide can help you advocate for yourself to your doctor.
First step would be to download the Know Your Lemons app, fill out the risk assessment, and set up the right time to meet with your doctor based on your risk. If you already have your appointment scheduled and are wondering what to ask your doctor during your exam, here are some questions to consider regarding any symptoms you may be having...
The Know Your Lemons app creates a screening plan for you based on the results of your personal risk assessment. Bring your screening guide that includes your risk factors to your doctor to discuss.
How long has it been there? - Knowing when you first noticed it and whether it has gone away with your menstrual cycle helps to understand whether it's a common hormonal change or something else. Note: If you are reporting pain as a symptom this is a common complaint as breasts can easily become tender during the last half of the menstrual cycle. Breast pain related to the menstrual cycle comes and goes. However, if the pain has persisted for 4-6 weeks, or is getting worse, it's still important to check it out.
Where is it located? - Is it in the right or left breast? Near the nipple or the armpit? Typically if you notice the same thing in both breasts in the same area, it's usually nothing of concern. If it's a lump that is sometimes is hard to find, draw an "X" on your skin with a marker so it can be located more easily during your appointment. You can also use the size of your fingers as a frame of reference, such as "3 finger width away from the nipple."
What symptom is it? - Look at the 12 signs of breast cancer and read the description about the symptom you are concerned about. This can give you some medical terms to use which may help in describing it to your doctor.
Talk about your risk. - Download and print our RISK ASSESSMENT and bring it to your appointment or use our Know Your Lemons app. This can help you and your doctor discuss your risk and make sure you are on the right screening plan according to your risk. (Higher risk, more screening and risk reducing options. Dense breasts, possibly add ultrasound to your mammogram.)
Next steps to expect:
Usually the next step is to get a mammogram and/or ultrasound. If the results indicate concern, a biopsy is usually the next step.
If your doctor dismisses your symptom without doing any testing or giving a clear explanation, it's ok to request testing to help you get a clear answer. Here is a video that explains the steps for investigating a symptom.
Learn the simple steps for how to detect breast cancer. The important thing is that you know your options and how to take care of your breast health. Download our free self exam app to know your recommended options based on your risk.
