Which breast changes should I report?
Tell a GP about a new lump or swelling, a change in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, an inward-turning nipple, a nipple rash or unexpected discharge. Symptoms do not prove that you have cancer, but they need checking. The NHS breast cancer symptoms page explains what the GP may ask and examine.
Our breast lump guide can help you prepare for that conversation. Reading about possible causes should not delay arranging it.
Is screening the same as investigating a lump?
No. Screening looks for changes before symptoms appear. In England, routine invitations are every three years from age 50 until your 71st birthday; the first invitation should arrive between 50 and 53. This does not mean everyone is invited on their 50th birthday.
If you think you should be invited but have not been, contact your local service. Trans and non-binary people can ask their GP or screening service about eligibility and invitations. Read the NHS screening eligibility guidance. Arrangements elsewhere in the UK should be checked with the local screening programme.
What happens at a breast clinic?
The clinic may examine your breasts and arrange a mammogram, ultrasound or biopsy. You may not need every test. A biopsy takes a small sample to examine in a laboratory and can provide information that helps plan treatment if cancer is found.
Before leaving, confirm which results are still outstanding, who will explain them and how to contact the clinic. A referral or request for another test is not itself a diagnosis. NHS information on breast-clinic tests explains the next steps.
How is treatment planned?
Treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted medicines or immunotherapy. The options depend on the cancer’s size, spread and laboratory findings, as well as your health. People with the same broad diagnosis may therefore have different plans.
Ask your specialist about the aim of each treatment, expected benefit, side effects, alternatives and the order of treatment. If fertility, menopause symptoms or daily responsibilities matter to your decisions, raise them with the team. The NHS treatment overview provides background for this discussion rather than a plan to choose yourself.
Where can I find support?
You can ask your breast care team for written information and support with practical or emotional concerns. It may help to bring someone you trust to an appointment; our guide for supporters covers preparing questions and taking notes.
For more background, Breast Cancer Charity brings together breast-health information and a UK support directory. Use this additional reading to prepare questions for your GP or breast care team, who can explain what applies to you.
Common questions about breast cancer
- Does a painless lump need checking?
- Yes. Breast changes can occur without pain. A GP can assess the change and decide whether you need a breast-clinic referral.
- Will I get all my breast-clinic results that day?
- Some results may be available during your visit, while others, such as a biopsy, take longer. Ask the clinic when and how you will hear, and who to contact if the agreed time passes.
- Can I have breast screening after 71?
- In England, routine invitations stop at 71, but you can contact your local breast screening service to request a mammogram every three years. Report symptoms to a GP rather than arranging screening to investigate them.
- Where can I find further reading and support?
- Your breast care team can explain your care and local support. For additional reading, Breast Cancer Charity publishes breast-health information and a directory linking to UK support services.