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You will probably find that you develop your own way of coping during this uncertain time. It may help to talk things through with friends or family, or to keep yourself busy.
Although these feelings are likely to continue until you get your results, it may be reassuring to know that most breast problems are benign.
A referral to a breast clinic may leave you feeling anxious - particularly if you have to wait a while for your appointment. Your GP will usually refer you to a clinic if you have a definite lump, a change in your nipple or breast pain that is severe and persistent.
You can expect to wait between two and ten weeks for your appointment to come through, depending upon where you live. If you have been referred as a matter of urgency you will be seen within two weeks.
You may also be referred to the breast clinic if a problem has been picked up on a routine mammogram. In this case you can expect to receive a letter asking you to attend your local breast clinic for further tests.
A doctor or specialist nurse will see you first. They will take a history of your symptoms and you may be asked to fill in a short questionnaire including questions about any family history of breast problems and any medication you are taking.
The doctor or nurse will check both your breasts while you are sitting and when you are lying down. The lymph glands in your armpits (axilla) will also be examined.
This examination forms the first part of what is known as a 'triple assessment'. Most people attending the breast clinic will be offered this triple assessment. However, not all the tests which form the triple assessment are appropriate for everyone. Your doctor and/or nurse will be able to talk with you in detail about which tests you are being offered and why.
It is important that you fully understand what tests you are having, why they are being carried out and when you will receive the test results. Your doctor and/or nurse will not mind you asking questions about the triple assessment and what it means to you.
The triple assessment will involve:
Sometimes all of these tests can be carried out on your first visit with the results being available later that day.
However, in some hospitals you may have to make another appointment for further tests or to get your results, which will probably take about a week.
Visit the Royal College of Radiologist website to take a virtual tour of a radiology department in your hospital to find out more.