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Preparing for your appointment
By Mayo Clinic staffFor evaluation of a new breast lump or changes on your breast exam, you're likely to start by seeing your primary health care provider. In some cases, based on a clinical breast examination or findings on an imaging test, you may be referred to a breast health specialist.
What you can do
The initial evaluation focuses on your medical history. You'll discuss with your doctor the symptoms you're experiencing, their relation to your menstrual cycle and any other relevant information. To facilitate this discussion:
- Take note of all your symptoms, even if they seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.
- Review key personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes.
- Make a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements that you regularly take.
- Write down questions to ask your doctor. List your questions from most important to least important in case time runs out.
What to expect from your doctor
Your doctor may ask you questions about:
- How long you've experienced symptoms
- If you've noticed a change in symptoms over time
- Whether you experience any breast pain and the severity of your pain
- Whether symptoms occur in one or both breasts
- When you had your last mammogram
- Your family history
- Your personal history of precancerous breast lesions
- If you've previously had a breast lump or breast biopsy
- Non-cancerous breast conditions. American Cancer Society. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_6X_Non_Cancerous_Breast_Conditions_59.asp?sitearea. Accessed April 7, 2010.
- Lucas JH, et al. Breast cyst aspiration. American Family Physician. 2003;68:1983.
- Sabel MS. Overview of benign breast disease. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed April 9, 2010.
- Courtillot C, et al. Benign breast diseases. Journal of Mammary Gland Biology and Neoplasia. 2005;10:325.
- Understanding breast changes: A health guide for women. National Cancer Institute. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/understanding-breast-changes. Accessed April 9, 2010.
- Laronga C, et al. Breast cysts: Diagnosis and management. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed April 9, 2010.
- Miltenberg DM, et al. Benign breast disease. Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America. 2008;35:285.
- Pruthi S, et al. Vitamin E and evening primrose oil for management of cyclical mastalgia: A randomized pilot study. Alternative Medicine Reviews. 2010;15:59.
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