Number 2 on my list of 52 things in 52 weeks was to get a breast lump check. I don’t think I ever wrote about it, but back in 2008 I found a lump in my breast. My family has a history of breast cancer (my mum is a survivor) so needless to say I was stressed. Thankfully it all checked out as benign, as did a follow up scan 6 months later.

I have been meaning to go back for another scan, but it’s not a straight forward process. As I’m under 50 it means I don’t qualify for Breast Screen Queensland and can’t just simply check in for a scan. Instead, I have to see a doctor, get a referral to the local hospital, meet with the doctors there and get another referral from them before finally reaching the radiology department. It’s a lot of time and effort, but I know it’s all worth it. Better to be safe than sorry.

So yesterday I had the honor of reuniting with this fun machine:

If you have never seen a mammogram machine before, or don’t know what it does, my boob sits on the black plate before getting squashed by the top plastic plate into what I call a “pancake tit”. It’s not a pleasant experience but if it could save my life one day then I will do whatever it takes.

I also had an ultrasound as well, during which they numbed part of my boob (no longer a pancake tit) stuck a needle in it and took a sample of breast tissue. That pain is a little bit longer lasting and the area can become bruised. As for the sample, some lucky doctor gets to check out some fat, blood and other stuff and conclusively say whether I have cancer or not. The procedure is called a “core biopsy“, and last time I had it done it was in the mammogram machine. I had a doctor leaning into my chest, and two female nurses, one at each hand. It definitely wasn’t the place to worry about modesty, since my boob was there for all to see. This time, I didn’t have a pancake tit as they did the procedure using the guidance of the ultrasound machine and there was less people in the room. Much more ideal.

I find out the results on Friday, but from what the doctors have said so far it all seems to be nothing of concern. I’ve been there done that once before where I stressed myself to tears, and all for nothing. This time I’m calm and completely at ease.

Just a reminder for all women out there, please please please remember to do self checks. If you find anything go and get it checked out. It’s not worth the risk. I have a friend currently going through the process and she is only just over 30. You are never too young to begin checking yourself.

For more information about breast cancer, please see the National Breast Cancer Foundation.