Breast Check Ups in Point Cook
Breast checks are available with the GPs at Juniper Avenue Medical Centre. Knowing what is normal for you matters, because most breast changes turn out to be harmless, and breast cancer found early is generally more treatable.
Getting to know your breasts
No special technique is needed. Look at and feel your breasts now and then, such as in the shower or when dressing, so a change stands out. Lumpiness or tenderness that comes and goes with your period is common and usually hormonal. Breasts also change with pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause.
Men can develop breast cancer too, although it is much less common, so any new chest lump is worth checking.
While breastfeeding, a red, hot, painful area with fever or flu-like symptoms can be mastitis, which needs prompt medical review.
Changes to have looked at promptly
- Any new lump or thickening, in the breast or under the arm
- Breast size or shape that looks different from before
- A nipple that turns inwards, crusts, or leaks fluid without being squeezed
- Dimpling, puckering or redness of the skin
- A rash, scaling or sore on the nipple or areola that does not heal
- Pain in one area that persists
The clinical breast check
The doctor will ask about the change, how long it has been there, where you are in your menstrual cycle, and any cancers in the family. With your consent, both breasts are examined, along with the armpits and the area around the collarbones.
If you would prefer a female doctor, or would like a chaperone or support person present, mention it to reception when booking so they can check what is possible.
Imaging and further tests
Symptoms are investigated with a diagnostic mammogram, an ultrasound or both, arranged through a referral. Women under about 35 often start with ultrasound, as younger breast tissue tends to be denser on a mammogram. Results go back to the doctor who requested them, so book a follow-up to go through them rather than waiting for a call.
Most results show something harmless, such as a cyst or normal breast tissue. When more investigation is needed, the next step may be a biopsy or a referral to a breast clinic or surgeon. Even after a clear result, a change that persists, or a new one, should be checked again.
Family history and personal risk
Having a parent, sibling or child with breast or ovarian cancer can raise your risk, particularly if they were diagnosed young or several relatives on the same side were affected. Your GP can go through your family tree and, where the pattern suggests an inherited risk, refer you to a familial cancer service for assessment.
Regular physical activity, a healthy body weight and drinking less alcohol are each linked with lower breast cancer risk.
BreastScreen for women without symptoms
BreastScreen Australia provides free screening mammograms every two years. Women aged 50 to 74 are invited, and women aged 40 and over are eligible. Bookings are made on 13 20 50. Screening is designed for people with no symptoms, so a lump or other change needs a GP appointment instead of a screening visit.
The same appointment can be a chance to catch up on cervical screening, which at the clinic can be done by a doctor or a nurse.
Fees and bulk billing
Out-of-pocket fees apply to most consultations, and each practitioner sets their own fees. Bulk billing is available with all our doctors for Veterans’ Affairs patients, pensioners over 65, childhood and adult immunisations and GP care plans. See our fees page or call reception before you book.