another weird experience

Tuesday, 10 February 2009

Today I am going for a mammogram [get that atrocious picture! the poor woman looks as if she’s ready to bash someone!]. Every time some new thing happens I go into a demented type of research mode. Yay, the internet - cold, concise facts. And lots of them. About everything.

It does sound like it's going to be a rather repulsive experience, having ones breasts crushed in a weird metal thing - it could ONLY have been designed by a man...but it has been niggling the back of my mind that it would be a good idea. And once the thought is in there, I have to do something about it or drive myself insane.

In the US it's seems that it's the norm to be sent for one after chemo/surgery etc. Here I have had to ask for it - which I don't mind, as it seems that if you do ask about stuff, you get a result. The trouble is that not everyone would think to ask, or know what to ask. Seeing that OC and breast cancer are closely linked got my little brain buzzing, and I asked my GP about it.

Apparently they don't usually do them [here in the UK] until you are 50 and/or menopausal. This is because the breast tissue becomes less dense around then, and it's easier for them to actually see things properly. In other countries women have one after they turn 40, once a year. Oh yes, I also noted that "there is no evidence that breast screening below the age of 50 is cost effective." Cost effective?? Oh really? I would love to meet the person who decided that little gem. Bastard. I'll cost effectively thump him.

So I told my GP I do rather FEEL about 50 at the moment, I AM menopausal and either he sorts it out or I'll need therapy [and he'll need a body cast]...he found that highly amusing, and he sorted it within a week. Pretty good going. I was even able to choose my appointment time on the internet - yay! I love technology. And I love that I am in a place where I get excellent treatment. I feel very lucky.

Back to the mammogram; apparently women in the UK have 2 pictures taken: one from above and one from the side. I was reading about how they do it etc. and my hair stood on end! But, I know it'll be reassuring, and I'm pleased I'm having it even though it's making me nervous. It only takes a few minutes. I also read not to wear any deodorant, perfume, lotion or powder under your arms or on your breasts on the day of your mammogram appointment. These things can make shadows show up on your mammogram. Hmm - interesting!

What fun eh? heh heh - think I'll scrub the bathroom later! Action always helps my nerves...though why I am nervous I can't imagine, it'll be a walk in the park compared to the stuff I went through last year. And yes, I KNOW everyone has one, and I KNOW it’s uncomfortable, and may even be painful - and I don’t care. It'll be good for my brain. Anyway, the first time you have something is always the worst as you don't quite know what to expect. Next time it'll be a doddle!

Expect a detailed report on The Horrible Breast Crushing Experience later...