Frequently asked questions
Honest, plain-language answers to the questions we hear most often.
A screening mammogram checks women without symptoms, to find cancer before it could be felt. A diagnostic mammogram looks at a symptom or a screening finding — it takes more images, zooms in on the area of concern, and is the first step when something needs a closer look.
It means your cancer cells have receptors for oestrogen and/or progesterone, so these hormones can fuel their growth. The good news: it means hormone therapy — a daily tablet that blocks that fuel — is likely to be an effective part of your treatment.
Breast cancer grows slowly enough that a few weeks of careful care planning will not change the outcome. Use the time to get second opinions and to choose your team — rushing is generally not needed. Your team will tell you if your situation calls for acting faster.
Not necessarily. Some chemotherapy regimens cause hair loss, others do not. Your oncologist can tell you what to expect with your drugs — and scalp-cooling caps can reduce loss for some regimens. If it happens, it is temporary.
Many women can. Fertility-preservation options exist — such as freezing eggs or embryos before treatment. Talk to your team about fertility planning early, because timing matters.
See a doctor — pregnancy changes do not excuse a persistent lump. Ultrasound and even mammography are safe during pregnancy, and breast cancer during pregnancy is treatable. Delaying the check is the only dangerous thing.
Usually every 6–12 months in the first years, then annually. You will have physical exams and imaging of both breasts, plus management of long-term side effects. Your survivorship care plan sets the exact pace.
Genetic testing is recommended when your personal or family history suggests an inherited pattern — such as cancer before age 50, disease in both breasts, or several affected relatives. Ask your team for a referral to genetic counselling before any test.
Some people notice changes, but weight gain is not guaranteed and is usually modest. What matters most is that hormone therapy prevents recurrence — keep your attention there, and use movement and nutrition to stay well.
In most cases, yes — with planning. Many people work, travel and exercise during treatment. Check with your team about flying after surgery, sun exposure during radiation, and activity limits between chemo cycles.
Involved nodes mean the cancer has a route beyond the breast, which informs your treatment — but modern therapy is very effective at this stage. Node removal may be needed, and your plan will be adjusted accordingly.
Yes — most oncologists encourage it. Treatment choices have lifelong consequences, and a second opinion either confirms your plan (peace of mind) or surfaces options you did not know about. Never hesitate to ask.