Breast screening helps detect breast cancer at an early stage, often before symptoms develop. The NHS Breast Screening Programme invites women aged between 50 and 70 every three years. Below you’ll find answers to common questions about who is invited, what happens at your appointment, and how to get support if you have concerns.
If you have any further questions or need help with your appointment, please contact the Breast Screening Unit:
Email: BSUappointments@wwl.nhs.uk
Phone: 0300 707 5899
Check out our poster
Do I need a referral from my GP to be screened?
No, if you are registered with a GP and are aged between 50–70 years, you will be called automatically when the screening team is next in your area.
I have lived away for 6 months and missed the mobile unit. Can I still be screened?
Yes, just contact the breast screening team when you return home.
Can I request breast screening when I am 50?
No, if you are registered with a GP, you will automatically be sent an invitation when the breast screening team are in your area. This will be before your 53rd birthday.
Can I be screened more regularly?
The National Breast Screening Programme screens all women on a three-year cycle. If you have any symptoms or think you have a breast problem, see your GP for advice.
My family has a history of breast cancer. I think I need screening more often.
If you are worried about your risk of developing breast cancer, your GP will be able to offer more information about the Family History Genetics Service.
I am the same age as my friend, and she has received her invitation for breast screening. Why haven’t I had mine?
Some women will be called when they are 50, but others will not receive their invitation until they are 52 depending on where they live. Everyone will have their invitation by their 53rd birthday.
I have just moved into the area; how do I arrange screening?
Once you have registered with a GP, the screening team will be notified and will send you an invitation for breast screening when they next screen that practice.
I am worried about my breasts; can I be screened?
If you have any symptoms or think you may have a breast problem, please see your GP for advice.
Can I choose where I am screened?
The breast screening team will try to give you as much choice as they can, depending on where their mobile units are situated.
Will the Mammographer be female?
All the Mammographers are female. It is very important that you feel comfortable throughout your screening appointment. The team will do everything possible to ensure your privacy and dignity are maintained and respected.
I don’t have any lumps; do I still need to attend?
Yes. Mammograms can find small tumours that are in the early stages of breast cancer before you can feel them, meaning treatment can start far sooner.
I’m afraid of what they might find.
Don’t jump to conclusions. Most women get the all clear after breast screening. One in 20 will be called back for further tests, but being called back doesn’t mean you have cancer.
I can’t speak English; do you have information in other languages?
Yes. There are leaflets in other languages explaining the process. Please contact the breast unit or visit GOV.UK and search for “Breast screening: helping you decide” to download a copy in your chosen language.
I have a learning disability; will I receive more information and support?
Yes. All ladies with a learning disability are sent an appointment letter in “Easy Read” format with double the time slot to ensure more time is available to explain the process. You are welcome to bring a carer with you.
I’m too busy to attend for a mammogram.
Please make the time to attend for your breast screening appointment. The whole appointment lasts 15–20 minutes and the mammogram itself takes about 5 minutes. If your appointment time is inconvenient, please call or email the breast unit to arrange a more suitable time.
Trans Men (registered with GP as female)
If you are a trans man aged 50–70 years registered as female, you will be routinely invited for breast screening. We recommend you consider screening if you have not had chest reconstruction or still have breast tissue.
If you are registered as male, you will not be invited automatically. If you have not had chest reconstruction, speak to your GP about a referral.
Trans Women (registered with GP as male)
If you are a trans woman aged 50–70 years registered as male, you will not be automatically invited for breast screening. If you have been on long-term hormone therapy, speak to your GP, who can refer you for screening.
Do I have to go to a mobile site?
We try to give appointments as close to your home as possible. If the mobile site is difficult for you, please phone us.
I suffer from cysts in the breast – can I be screened more frequently?
Eligible women are screened every three years. If you are worried, please see your GP.
Is it painful?
Some people find mammography painful, others find it uncomfortable, and some hardly notice it. Everyone is different.
How long does it take to screen each breast?
Two images are required for each breast, and it takes a few seconds for each image to be obtained.
Does the compression cause any damage to the breast?
There is no evidence to show that it does.
I missed my appointment – what should I do?
Please contact the breast screening unit and they will arrange another appointment for you.
I have implants; can I have screening?
Yes. Please advise the unit before attending so that a longer appointment slot can be made to discuss the examination.
I have undergone reconstructive surgery; can I still be screened?
This will depend on your reconstructive surgery and how much breast tissue remains. Please contact the breast unit to discuss further.
Can I be screened now I’m over 70 years?
If you are over 70, you will not automatically be invited for breast screening. However, you have the right to be screened every three years if you ask. All you need to do is phone or write to your local breast screening unit to make an appointment.