I have a confession to make. I haven't had a mammogram in nine years. I wonder if there's a twelve-step program for that? Let's face it, mammograms are pretty uncomfortable and slightly embarrassing since the girls are hanging out there for all to see (okay, maybe just the technician, but you get my point).
During my last physical my doctor reminded me of the importance of periodic mammograms for a woman my age. So off I went. It was uncomfortable, not as bad as I remembered or embarrassing.
Then I got the call...found something, need further tests. So I went in for another mammogram - this time more detailed, focusing on the breast in question. Long story short, they found some calcification that looks questionable. The fact that I hadn't had a mammogram in nine years didn't help because they weren't sure how long those spots had been there.
My doctor sent me to a breast specialist to get a second opinion. I went to see her today and after looking at my x-rays, concurred that I get a breast needle biopsy (stereotactic biopsy). This is where they go into the breast with a small needle and extract the questionable substance and test for the dreaded "C" word. The proceedure is done in the doctor's office with a local anesthetic and then you're good to go.
Strangely enough, I feel very calm about this. My body is telling me that it's okay. I know that sounds a little "woo-woo" but, I'm am pretty in-touch with my body and can usually tell when something's not right. So I wait until next Thursday for that appointment and hope for the best.
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Tags: breast needle biopsy, Mammogram, needle biopsy, stereotactic biopsy