Breast Screening
NHS Breast Screening Programme
Anyone registered with a GP as female will be invited for NHS breast screening every 3 years between the ages of 50 and 71.
You’ll get a letter in the post inviting you, and you will receive your first appointment by the time you reach 53 years old.
Leeds Breast Screening
For more information or to change or alter your appointment:
Telephone: 0113 733 4974 (Extension option 6)
What to expect
Breast screening uses a breast x-ray, called a mammogram, to look for cancer that may be too small to see or feel.
Your mammogram will be taken by a female practitioner who will place your breasts one at a time on an x-ray machine and compress them each for a few seconds.
The mammographer will also ask you some questions about your history such as if you’ve had a mammogram before, if you’ve had surgery to your breasts or chest and if you are having any symptoms currently.
Pictures of the breasts will be taken from different angles, including the part around the underarms. Although it may be uncomfortable, it will only last a few seconds and isn’t harmful.
It’s a good idea to wear loose, comfortable clothing, as you will need to undress to the waist.
Things to help at your appointment
- Do not use talcum powder or spray deodorant on the day as this may affect the mammogram – roll-on deodorant is OK
- Wear a top with skirt or trousers, to make it easier to get naked to the waist. Gowns are not provided
- Remove necklaces and nipple piercings before you arrive for your appointment
- Tell them if you have found screening uncomfortable in the past
- Talk to the staff if you are nervous or embarrassed, they are trained to help you feel more comfortable and provide support
- Ask staff not to use any phrases or words that make you uncomfortable or nervous
- Tell the staff your pronouns, if you would like to
When can I expect to receive my results?
Your results will be posted to the address listed with your GP practice, usually within two to three weeks. The Surgery will also receive a copy of your results for to add to your medical records.
Breast/Chest Checks
Check every month
Chest checking should be part of your monthly routine so you will notice any unusual changes quickly. By checking every month, you will get more confident about knowing what is normal for you. Everyone has to start somewhere, so do not worry if you do not feel confident straight away.
Know what’s normal for you
Being chest/breast aware means knowing what is normal for you. If you have periods, it’s likely you will find your chest changes naturally as part of your cycle each month. It is important to get to know the normal rhythm of your chest so you will notice anything unusual quickly.
Look AND feel
Many of the signs of breast cancer are changes you would only notice by seeing how your chest looks. It’s recommended to feel your chest AND take a look during your checks. The area that can be affected by breast cancer reaches all the way up to your collarbones and underneath your armpits. Check this whole area each time. This is the same for all genders.
If in doubt, get it checked out
Only the GP can send you for further tests and a diagnosis. If the sign you have noticed does not go away after a week, please contact us for an appointment.
Find out more about what to expect when you visit your doctor.
CoppaFeel Self Checkout Guide
Made by the charity CoppaFeel, this inclusive, interactive guide takes you through the process of how to check your chest. Videos and key things to look for are included at each step.
Visit: CoppaFeel Self-Checkout