Most women know they should keep an eye on their breasts. Fewer feel sure about what they are looking for, or when a mammogram is due. Both parts matter, and they work best together. This guide covers the changes worth noticing and how free breast screening works in Australia.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian women. The Australian Government says about 1 in 7 women will be diagnosed during their lifetime. Age is the biggest known risk factor. Most breast cancers are found in women over 50.
What being breast aware means
Being breast aware simply means knowing how your own breasts usually look and feel. Breasts vary a lot in size, shape and colour from one woman to the next. There is no single normal, only what is normal for you. Once you know that, a change is much easier to spot.
There is no set technique you have to follow. The government advice is to check your breasts regularly and act on any changes. Some women check in the shower, while others look in the mirror as they get dressed. The habit matters more than the method.
It helps to make it part of a routine you already have. Plenty of women link it with other small health habits, like the ones in our piece on living a healthy lifestyle on a limited budget. Checking costs nothing and takes a few minutes. Over time you will build a clear picture of what feels right.
Changes to see your doctor about
The Australian Government advice on being breast aware lists a number of warning signs. Breast cancer can develop at any time, including between screening appointments. That is why knowing your breasts still matters if you have regular mammograms. The signs to look and feel for include:
- a new lump or lumpiness, especially in just one breast
- a change in the size, shape or colour of a breast
- nipple changes such as redness, crusting, discharge or a nipple turning inwards
- skin changes such as dimpling, swelling or bulging
- irritation or a rash
- pain that does not go away
BreastScreen NSW adds that nipple discharge which happens without squeezing is worth checking. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your GP as soon as possible. The changes are often nothing serious. Still, it is always better to be sure.
See your GP, not the screening service, for symptoms
Screening is for women with no symptoms. If you have noticed a change, book in with your GP instead of waiting for your next mammogram. BreastScreen NSW asks women with symptoms to see their GP rather than visit the screening service. Your doctor can assess the change and arrange any tests straight away.
Those tests may include a physical breast examination. Your GP may also order diagnostic imaging such as a mammogram or an ultrasound. Going early gives you answers sooner. It also saves weeks of worry if the change turns out to be harmless.
It can help to write down what you noticed before the appointment. Note when you first saw it and whether it has changed. A short list of questions also keeps things on track.
How free breast screening works
BreastScreen Australia is the national breast screening program. It offers free mammograms through services in every state and territory. Women aged 50 to 74 are invited to have a free mammogram every two years. The aim is to find breast cancers early, before they can be seen or felt.
Women aged 40 to 49, and women aged 75 and over, can also have a free mammogram through the program. They just will not receive an invitation in the mail. You can find your local service through the BreastScreen Australia Program page. Each state and territory runs its own service, and there are more than 750 screening locations around the country.
Those locations include mobile vans, buses and four wheel drives that visit regional areas. You do not need a referral from your doctor to book. BreastScreen WA notes that the service is free and no referral is needed. The government says the five year survival rate for breast cancer has risen to 94% since the program began.
What happens at a screening appointment
A screening mammogram is an x ray of the breasts. It is taken by a health professional called a radiographer, who explains the process first. You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up. A top and skirt or pants can make this easier than a dress.
Each breast is placed between two plates, and the machine presses firmly for about 10 seconds. Usually two images are taken of each breast, one from the side and one from above. The whole appointment usually takes less than 30 minutes. The mammograms themselves only take a few minutes.
It is normal to feel some discomfort, but it should only last a few seconds. If it hurts, tell the radiographer at the time and the pressure can be released. Some women find it easier to book with a friend or sister and go together.
Getting your results
Two or more specially trained health professionals look at each set of images. They are checking for any unusual areas in the breast. BreastScreen WA aims to send results within two weeks, although it can occasionally take longer. With your agreement, a copy can also go to your GP.
Some women are asked to come back for more tests. Being recalled does not mean you have breast cancer. It happens more often after a first mammogram, because there are no earlier images to compare with. In WA these follow up tests are also free.
Looking after yourself between screens
A clear result is good news, but it covers one moment in time. Keep checking your breasts in between appointments. Put your next screen in your calendar so the two years do not slip by. If you have moved house, update your details with your local service.
General health habits also help you feel more in control. Regular movement, good sleep and a steady eating pattern all play a part. Busy weeks can make that harder, and our piece on stress eating after a long day has some gentle ideas. None of these replace screening, but they support your overall wellbeing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral for a mammogram?
No referral is needed for a BreastScreen appointment. The service is free for eligible women. You can book directly with the service in your state or territory. Your GP can still help if you have questions.
I am 45. Can I have a free screen?
Yes. Women aged 40 to 49 can have a free mammogram through BreastScreen Australia. You will not get an invitation in the mail, so you need to book yourself. Talk to your GP if you are unsure whether screening suits you.
How often should I check my breasts?
The government advice is to check regularly, without setting a fixed schedule. Some women pick a set time each month so it becomes a habit. The goal is to know your normal so you notice changes. See your GP about anything new.
What if I find a lump just after a clear mammogram?
See your GP as soon as possible. Breast cancer can develop between screening appointments. A recent clear result does not mean a new change can be ignored. Your doctor can decide if further tests are needed.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Please speak with your doctor or a qualified health professional about your own health.