1. Can I change or cancel my screening appointment?
Yes, please call us on 0131 537 7400 or email us at ses.breastscreening@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk to change or cancel your appointment, this way we can offer your appointment time to someone else.
2. When will I receive my screening invite?
Once every three years your GP practice will be contacted and you’ll be invited for screening so you do not need to contact us to make an appointment. If it has been more than three years since your last screening appointment, please contact us.
3. I think I have symptoms, what should I do?
If you have symptoms of breast cancer then please contact your GP, don’t wait until you’re next routine screening appointment. It’s important that you know the symptoms and check your breasts for changes regularly. Learn more about what to look out for on the Breast Cancer Now website.
4. Is it painful?
Having your breasts pressed flat between the plates can be uncomfortable, and some women find it painful. Our female mammographers will make you feel as comfortable as possible and you can say stop at any point if you feel too much discomfort.
5. I’m over 70, can I still get an appointment?
Due to the impact of the covid-19 pandemic, self-referrals for women over 70 was paused. This is changing in Autumn 2022 when women aged between 71 and 75 and those who have previously had breast cancer will be able to book themselves in for screening. This will then be gradually rolled out to women over 75.
6. What happens at a screening appointment?
For a video and step-by-step guide on what to expect, please check out our page on what happens at a screening appointment.
7. Can I go for screening if I have breast implants?
Yes, you can have a mammogram if you’ve got breast implants but please contact us to let us know before your appointment.
8. Can men get breast cancer?
There are about 29 new male breast cancer cases a year in Scotland. Men should tell their GP if they notice any changes in their breasts.
9. What should I wear to my appointment?
If you can, please wear a skirt or trousers as you will be asked to undress from the waist up. There’s no need to feel embarrassed as your privacy is respected at all times and all our mammographers are women. You can cover up with your own top when you’re not having your mammogram done.
10. I’m a transgender women, am I eligible for screening?
Yes, if you’re taking hormones, the development of breast tissue means that you may be at risk of developing breast cancer. If you’re not automatically invited, please contact your GP or call us directly.
11. When will I get my results?
Your screening results will be sent to you in the post within three weeks of your appointment. For more information on screening results, visit NHS Inform.
12. Can I claim travel expenses?
Yes. If you receive certain income-related benefits or you’re on a low income you may be able to reclaim your expenses. Call NHS inform for free on 0800 22 44 88 for more information.
13. Can I choose not to go to my appointment?
You always have a choice . Please contact us to let us know if you will not be attending so that we can make the appointment available for someone else. If you do not want another invitation in three years you can complete a form to remove your name from the system. You can change your mind at any time.
