BREAST ULTRASOUND: INDICATIONS OF EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR A STRESS-FREE EXPERIENCE.
If you have been recommended for a breast ultrasound, it is normal for you to have questions about how it is performed, when you should have it done and what to expect.
Prepare yourself before, during and after the exam to ensure accurate results and optimal breast health - protect your well-being with this comprehensive guide!
In this article, we will guide you step by step on the indications and everything you need to know to make the procedure effective, fast and without surprises. Here you will learn how to prepare before, what happens during the exam and what to expect after.
Why do you need a breast ultrasound and its indications?
Breast ultrasound is an essential diagnostic test for obtaining detailed images of breast tissues. It is commonly used for:
- Evaluate breast lumps or masses that are not palpable to the naked eye.
- Guide additional procedures such as biopsies or drains.
- Complement other diagnostic tests such as mammography, especially in women with dense breast tissue.
Breast ultrasound is particularly useful for young women or those who have a family history of breast cancer.
Breast ultrasound with indications before the test is performed
Preparing properly before your appointment is key to ensuring that the procedure is performed efficiently and accurately. Here is everything you need to know.
Steps prior to the appointment:
- Avoid products on the skin: Do not use deodorant, lotions, creams or talcum powder on the chest area on the day of the exam. These products can interfere with the images obtained during the ultrasound.
- Comfortable clothing: Opt for clothing that you can easily remove from your upper body. This will make the process more comfortable and faster.
- Consult your medical history: If you have a family history of breast cancer or any breast condition, inform the technician. This information may be important for the evaluation of the exam.
- No fasting is necessary: Unlike other procedures, you do not need to fast before the breast ultrasound.
Breast ultrasound, indications and steps during the procedure
Breast ultrasound is a non-invasive and quick procedure. Here we explain what will happen during the exam, step by step.
Arrival at the consultation: Once you arrive at your appointment, you will be invited to a private room where you will remove your upper clothing to expose your breasts.
- Gel application: The technician will apply a clear, warm gel to your skin. This gel is necessary for the transducer (the device that emits the sound waves) to work properly. Don't worry, the gel is not painful, it may just be a little uncomfortable because of the temperature.
- Movement of the transducer: The transducer is placed on your chest, and the technologist will move it with gentle movements while watching the images on a screen. During this process, you may feel slight pressure, but it should not be painful.
- Duration: The procedure generally takes between 30 minutes. During this time, the technician will take several images from different angles to ensure the best possible information is obtained.
- Completion: Once the exam is finished, the technician will clean the gel from your skin, and you will be able to get dressed again. At this point, the exam is complete.
After Breast Ultrasound: Indications and What to Expect
Although breast ultrasound is quick and noninvasive, it is important to know what happens after the procedure.
Results and follow-up:
- Turnaround time for results: Generally, breast ultrasound results will be available within 24 to 72 hours. In some cases, the radiologist will be able to tell you about the immediate findings, although a detailed report will be sent to your physician.
- Interpreting the results: Breast ultrasound can show a variety of images, from benign cysts to solid masses. If anything abnormal is detected, your doctor will direct you to next steps, which may include further testing, such as a biopsy.
- If no abnormalities are detected: If the results are normal, no further testing is usually necessary at that time, although your physician may recommend routine follow-up depending on your medical history.
Conclusion
Having a breast ultrasound is an important step in monitoring your breast health, especially if you have a family history of cancer or are experiencing changes in your breasts.
By following these steps before, during and after the examination, you can ensure that the procedure is successful and that the results are as accurate as possible.
If you have any questions or need to schedule your breast ultrasound exam, feel free to contact us on our website. Our team is here to help you take care of your breast health.