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Fuji
PeaAddict
PeaNut 83,512
April 2003
Posts: 1,083
Layouts: 0
Loc: a little house on the prairie
 |  Posted: 2/11/2013 9:44:07 AM
I am 44 and had my first mammogram last week (I know, I know; I should have done it sooner). I made this appointment about 6 months ago, but last week was the earliest I could get in.
Today I received a call that they would like me to come back tomorrow for another mammogram and an ultrasound on my right breast. She said they wanted me to come today or tomorrow because that is when the radiologist would be in. We live in a rural area, and I believe the radiologist only comes once a week. I'm hoping that's why they wanted me back so soon.
The person calling assured me that many people are called back, especially when it's their first mammogram because they need good baseline imaging. I have very large breasts, so maybe that's part of it???
My sister was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer 1 1/2 years ago, so I'm extremely worried.
How common is this? I just need to know how freaked out I should be.
***Update 2/12***
I had my appointment this afternoon and received the all clear. It was such a huge relief. One area was a very small calcification that looked fine in the second mammogram. The radiologist wanted to look at the second area in an ultrasound because of the density. He determined that it was an area of several cysts that overlapped somewhat.
I have to go back in 6 months to look at the calcification, primarily because I have only had the one mammogram. They just want to keep an eye on it.
Thank you all for the assurances that the chances were good that all would be well. It truly helped. I had so many thoughts running through my head in that 24 hour period.
Best wishes to everyone who is in the midst of callbacks and/or more testing. I hope you get good news.
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Shevy
Harley Riding Pea
PeaNut 10,051
January 2001
Posts: 7,338
Layouts: 9
Loc: 10,000 Lakes and Double Cities!
 |  Posted: 2/11/2013 9:47:48 AM
I get screened every 6 months. I have a strong family history. In the last 20 years I've been called back a couple of times. It's scary, but try not to worry. You can't change anything so try to remember that it's likely that they just need a shot from as different angle or a different kind of picture. They usually give you the results right then and there, so there is no waiting and that's why they need the radiologist there.
I wish you peave through this. Will you come back and let us know after your appointment? |
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voltagain
OklaPhoma
PeaNut 18,334
July 2001
Posts: 35,322
Layouts: 15
Loc: State of cultural confusion. Yeehaw and Aloha have collided!
 | Posted: 2/11/2013 9:48:13 AM
For large breasted women it is very common. I get called back every time due to calcifications they want to look at again.
I understand your worry. |
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identicaltriplets
To God be the Glory!
PeaNut 221,552
September 2005
Posts: 6,280
Layouts: 445
Loc: Glad to be back in the Carolinas!
 | Posted: 2/11/2013 9:49:31 AM
I will be 48 in June, and I have had many mammograms. I have gotten 2 or 3 call backs and had to go in for more testing. Each time it turned out to be nothing, praise God. I did hear that they are being extra careful now so call backs are no long uncommon.
I am so sorry about your sister but pray yours is nothing and that she is doing better. Hugs! |
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BrinaG
PeaFixture
PeaNut 205,553
May 2005
Posts: 3,514
Layouts: 0
 | Posted: 2/11/2013 9:52:24 AM
It is common to get called back. Among those called back some small number need biopsies and among those who get the biopsy a small number are actually diagnosed with cancer. How small the number is irrelevant, because you are going to worry. It is just a fact. Best of luck. | |
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UkSue
AncestralPea
PeaNut 428,374
June 2009
Posts: 4,300
Layouts: 2
Loc: Greater London
 | Posted: 2/11/2013 9:53:37 AM
I am 52 and have only had 2 ( here they don't advise mammogram screening before 50 due to the density of breast tissue- I know that they say completely different in the States)I was told not to worry at all if I got called back as yes, they need good baseline, plus they always err on the side of caution. The first time I was told my tissue was very dense and firm and it may be difficult to get a good image ( boy that first mammogram hurt as I am also very small!) it sounds to me like you need to not panic and just get it redone. |
| Love is short, forgetting is long, and understanding longer still. | |
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Monklady123
AncestralPea
PeaNut 475,028
July 2010
Posts: 4,591
Layouts: 0
Loc: Northern VA
 | Posted: 2/11/2013 9:54:16 AM
I think almost all of my friends have been called back at one time or another. VERY common. I think it has a lot to do with the excellent technology we have nowadays, that can see every little spot much better than it used to. And if they see a spot then they have to investigate it. So the patient gets called back.
Useless to tell you not to worry, I know, but at least know that you are in good company. 
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purpledaisy
Calm
PeaNut 116,261
November 2003
Posts: 25,224
Layouts: 102
 | Posted: 2/11/2013 9:57:12 AM
I just had my first mammogram last year. And I was called back because of density. From the threads here and people I know IRL, it's very common to be called back. (((hugs))) |
Becca
May we be consumed with the Creator of all things rather than with things created.
6 rings - no cheating! Go STEELERS!
Holding a grudge is letting someone live rent-free in your head. | |
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Linda-H
StuckOnPeas
PeaNut 364,338
February 2008
Posts: 2,169
Layouts: 1
 | Posted: 2/11/2013 9:57:50 AM
I also just had my first mammogram and am being called back.
Best of luck to you.
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nicolequinn
Sick of Snow
PeaNut 41,352
June 2002
Posts: 5,852
Layouts: 0
Loc: Alaska
| Posted: 2/11/2013 10:01:21 AM
It is VERY common to get a call back!!
Especially if you have large breasts.
I'm in the same situation. I went for my first mammogram a few months ago in October. I got an immediate call back. Then they STILL didn't like what they saw, so I went straight from the mammogram over to radiology where they did a CT Scan. They are convinced it is nothing, but they are having me come back in 6 months... which this is a good reminder for me to make my appointment today. I guess April will be 6 months... so thanks for posting!
I'm sure all will be well. Again, it is VERY common to get a call back. Out of my 5 best friends 4 of us have all gotten called back in.
Good luck! |
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not2peased
Ancient Ancestor of Pea
PeaNut 260,865
May 2006
Posts: 12,937
Layouts: 0
Loc: Northeast
| Posted: 2/11/2013 10:49:09 AM
I have been called back several times. this last time they did 2 more mammos and an u/s and I just had a needle biopsy (first time for that one!) I was very scared but it turned out to be nothing
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-Kerry
Let the refining and improving of your own life keep you so busy that you have little time to criticize others.
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revirdsuba
Wise~old Pea
PeaNut 17,460
June 2001
Posts: 22,193
Layouts: 94
Loc: Central NJ
| Posted: 2/11/2013 11:06:07 AM
Try not to worry (I know it is hard not too). I was called back several years ago, no problem. | |
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PEAce sign
i'm not superstitious, but i am a little stitious.
PeaNut 274,722
August 2006
Posts: 13,003
Layouts: 0
Loc: OH-IO!
 | Posted: 2/11/2013 11:17:55 AM
i got a callback on friday and am going here in a bit for my ultrasound. it's fairly common, actually. don't be too worried. many people have dense breasts and they can't see well without the ultrasound. many people have cysts which are fluid filled and can be drained easy peasy.
i'm not going to worry about my callback until there's a reason to worry.
good luck!! | |
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SuzastampinCTMH
PeaFixture
PeaNut 157,667
July 2004
Posts: 3,864
Layouts: 15
Loc: Upstate NY
| Posted: 2/11/2013 12:02:29 PM
I had something similar a number of years ago. I hadn't had a mammo in 5 years...yea..I know... They did the mammo and sent me right to the ultrasound before I even left the building. The ultrasound tech couldn't say anything, but she told me it looked like I shouldn't be worried. Saw the surgeon and because it was small, they did a lumpectomy rather than trying to hit it for a biopsy. It was the size of a pea. Anyway, after pathology it was determined to be a fibroid type thing. I can't remember what it was called but they are very common.
So, try not to worry. I know...easier said than done. |
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gmcwife1
SamFan
PeaNut 33,625
March 2002
Posts: 8,104
Layouts: 0
Loc: Washington State
| Posted: 2/11/2013 12:31:26 PM
I think it's more common than we all thought. I was also called back and had to do an ultrasound.
I know it's hard to not worry  Good luck at your appointment, mine was just that I had dense tissue.
~ Dori ~
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mikklynn
PeaAddict
PeaNut 294,285
January 2007
Posts: 1,636
Layouts: 1
Loc: Minnesota
| Posted: 2/11/2013 12:33:19 PM
It's scary, but SO common. I had to go back for the first time last year. Everything was fine, they just wanted to look at a different angle. Good luck! |
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momto4kiddos
PeaAddict
PeaNut 429,864
July 2009
Posts: 1,125
Layouts: 0
| Posted: 2/11/2013 12:35:52 PM
Try not to worry, it's very common. Honestly the first time I didn't get a callback I was surprised. My very first one, they called me back because they wanted a better look. Then told me I needed to come in every six months. About 18 months later I got on the every year cycle and have even had callbacks still.
Last callback I got an ultrasound to boot which totally freaked me out, but they gave me the all clear at the end. So try not to be too nervous. | |
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S_cR_aP_Booker
PeaAddict
PeaNut 400,592
November 2008
Posts: 1,322
Layouts: 0
Loc: Mississippi
 | Posted: 2/11/2013 1:08:57 PM
Not uncommon and it can be nerve racking, but just be glad that they want to make sure about what they are seeing  | |
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basketsforme
BucketHead
PeaNut 12,664
March 2001
Posts: 573
Layouts: 91
Loc: Central Kentucky
| Posted: 2/11/2013 2:34:24 PM
I too have been called back several times. They just want to rule out any possibilities. It is especially common for anyone with dense breast tissue.
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Fuji
PeaAddict
PeaNut 83,512
April 2003
Posts: 1,083
Layouts: 0
Loc: a little house on the prairie
| Posted: 2/11/2013 5:01:34 PM
Thanks so much for all the positive, kind comments. I would say I'm concerned but not as panicked as I was this morning. I've kept myself busy today, so I wouldn't have too much time to think about it. I can't do anything about it right now, so I have to deal with it. DH has been very supportive and loving, so that's helpful. He knows how to keep me calm in situations like this.
To those of you who are also in the midst of a callback, I hope you get good news as well. This isn't fun. | |
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peapermint
Ancient Ancestor of Pea
PeaNut 9,321
January 2001
Posts: 8,651
Layouts: 0
Loc: all up in your business
| Posted: 2/11/2013 5:23:52 PM
I got called back twice on my first mammogram at age 40 and everything was fine! They even did an ultrasound one of my DD's
Supposedly, since the first is a baseline they're more curious. I was really nervous too and asked here and around. | |
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peapermint
Ancient Ancestor of Pea
PeaNut 9,321
January 2001
Posts: 8,651
Layouts: 0
Loc: all up in your business
| Posted: 2/11/2013 5:24:08 PM
I got called back twice on my first mammogram at age 40 and everything was fine! They even did an ultrasound one of my DD's
Supposedly, since the first is a baseline they're more curious. I was really nervous too and asked here and around. | |
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mom22reds
PeaAddict
PeaNut 191,815
February 2005
Posts: 1,979
Layouts: 4
Loc: Moorpark, CA
| Posted: 2/11/2013 5:32:27 PM
I got called back after my first one, and then they had me come back 6 months later. Everything was fine.
Sonia |
2013 Goal:
Organize my entire house one drawer, cabinet, nook and cranny at a time!
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LuvLanette30
PeaAddict
PeaNut 124,944
January 2004
Posts: 1,942
Layouts: 0
Loc: C. California.*happy*
| Posted: 2/11/2013 5:48:55 PM
I had mine done few years ago, in fact thanks for posting this, I need make an appointment and get rechecked, first time I had mine, I went from the Mamo straight to Ultrasound then scheduled biopsy which turned out fine, no cancer even though there history, but found out its fibrosis (SP) that I have, and my birth mother confirmed she has same thing so I sort of follow in her footsteps when it comes to few things. So I know its easy to say not to worry but mostly its nothing in the end, and IF it does , you have total support in real life and on here. Please keep us posted how you're doing... Prayers in case... |
Laura
Divorced *sigh*
DS is 7yrs old, and in transition time is all I can say
People travel to wonder at the height of the mountains,
at the huge waves of the seas, at the long course of the rivers,
at the vast compass of the ocean,
at the circular motion of the stars,
and yet they pass by themselves without wondering.
"only trust some one who can see three things in you:"
" The Sorrow behind your smile,
The Love behind your anger,
and the reason behind your silence" | |
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EPea
PeaAddict
PeaNut 83,913
April 2003
Posts: 1,310
Layouts: 135
Loc: Kentucky
| Posted: 2/11/2013 6:17:58 PM
Happened to me my very first time (at 38 a my ob/gun likes to get a "baseline" mammogram before 40.) My doctor told me beforehand not to be surprised if I got called back....but yeah, it was still scary. All was well. | |
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EPea
PeaAddict
PeaNut 83,913
April 2003
Posts: 1,310
Layouts: 135
Loc: Kentucky
| Posted: 2/11/2013 6:18:14 PM
Happened to me my very first time (at 38 a my ob/gun likes to get a "baseline" mammogram before 40.) My doctor told me beforehand not to be surprised if I got called back....but yeah, it was still scary. All was well. | |
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kirbage
PeaNut
PeaNut 459,353
March 2010
Posts: 44
Layouts: 4
Loc: Charlottesville, VA
| Posted: 2/11/2013 6:49:12 PM
I agree - it is scary & can have us feeling anxious BUT, rest assured, it IS very common. it's the not knowing that, I think, that gets to us. | |
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EPea
PeaAddict
PeaNut 83,913
April 2003
Posts: 1,310
Layouts: 135
Loc: Kentucky
| Posted: 2/11/2013 6:50:14 PM
Happened to me my very first time (at 38 a my ob/gun likes to get a "baseline" mammogram before 40.) My doctor told me beforehand not to be surprised if I got called back....but yeah, it was still scary. All was well. | |
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alyca
PeaNut
PeaNut 184,967
January 2005
Posts: 173
Layouts: 28
Loc: Seattle
| Posted: 2/11/2013 10:39:13 PM
This is why I really like my mammogram place.
I am only 35, but have had 3 mammograms already, and am having another one in a week. I get cysts (lumps) that have always been totally benign in the past, but it is always a good idea to get new lumps checked out. Even if you think they are just cysts. Especially since breast cancer runs in my dad's side of the family (2 of his 5 sisters, and his mom had breast cancer which was successfully treated; another sister died from pancreatic cancer. At least my mom's side is totally cancer free...but she has 6 brothers and no sisters, so who knows...)
Anyway...I go to a dedicated breast health clinic, where you get a mammogram, then head over to have your ultrasound a few minutes later. You have all your results given you you at the appointment. No wondering or worrying or 'callbacks' to wait for. I have had a couple of cysts aspirated in the past, because they got big enough for me to really notice that they were there (not visible or anything, just bothering me in their presence and how easily I could feel them), and I did have to schedule a separate appointment for the aspiration, but at least I had their assurance that they were just simple cysts. | |
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alyca
PeaNut
PeaNut 184,967
January 2005
Posts: 173
Layouts: 28
Loc: Seattle
| Posted: 2/11/2013 10:39:25 PM
This is why I really like my mammogram place.
I am only 35, but have had 3 mammograms already, and am having another one in a week. I get cysts (lumps) that have always been totally benign in the past, but it is always a good idea to get new lumps checked out. Even if you think they are just cysts. Especially since breast cancer runs in my dad's side of the family (2 of his 5 sisters, and his mom had breast cancer which was successfully treated; another sister died from pancreatic cancer. At least my mom's side is totally cancer free...but she has 6 brothers and no sisters, so who knows...)
Anyway...I go to a dedicated breast health clinic, where you get a mammogram, then head over to have your ultrasound a few minutes later. You have all your results given you you at the appointment. No wondering or worrying or 'callbacks' to wait for. I have had a couple of cysts aspirated in the past, because they got big enough for me to really notice that they were there (not visible or anything, just bothering me in their presence and how easily I could feel them), and I did have to schedule a separate appointment for the aspiration, but at least I had their assurance that they were just simple cysts. | |
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scrappinjenof3&twins
PeaAddict
PeaNut 196,066
March 2005
Posts: 1,350
Layouts: 126
Loc: outside Norfolk, VA... for now
| Posted: 2/11/2013 10:50:15 PM
Totally common and totally terrifying. I had a callback after my first last year at 42. Had a second one followed by an u/s and a consult w a breast surgeon, gulp. Wrapped that up w a biopsy and a very long 3 days waiting for the results. That were fine. Good luck, I know how scary it can be. |
Jenny
Thrilled to be wife of a great Navy Pilot, Patrick.
Teacher turned SAHM to 5
http://scrappinjen-partyoffive.blogspot.com | |
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doesitmatter?
AncestralPea
PeaNut 509,811
May 2011
Posts: 4,894
Layouts: 27
| Posted: 2/11/2013 11:00:07 PM
No, call backs are pretty common. |
| Child of God, follower of Jesus, and so thankful for His presence in my life <>< | |
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chachasmom
PeaNut
PeaNut 37,783
May 2002
Posts: 186
Layouts: 1
| Posted: 2/11/2013 11:06:36 PM
Wow!
I got called back today for my mammogram last week I'm 44 too. I go in on Thursday.
You will be in my thoughts! | |
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Darcy_Collins
StuckOnPeas
PeaNut 514,615
July 2011
Posts: 2,140
Layouts: 0
 | Posted: 2/12/2013 12:08:40 AM
Just chiming in - another one with a strong family history, so started mammograms early. I have dense breasts and ALWAYS have to have an ultrasound. It IS scary the first time - but now, I'd be worried if they didn't ask for one. Luckily, my clinic does it all on the same day, so no needless worrying over a few days.
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Scrapalotomous
2 Headed Tasmanian Pea
PeaNut 106,860
September 2003
Posts: 6,092
Layouts: 24
Loc: The Apple Isle
| Posted: 2/12/2013 12:15:23 AM
I got called back last October from my first one as well.
I know you are going to be pooping your pants until the day but it does help to hear that others have been in the same boat.
Hope it all goes well xx |
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Pennys mum
Stuck In The Bucket
PeaNut 226,994
October 2005
Posts: 702
Layouts: 0
Loc: Auckland, New Zealand
| Posted: 2/12/2013 1:14:28 AM
I have had 2 mammograms, and both times I was called back.
the first time I was called back I had to have a scan on the left boobie - the tissue was dense and they wanted another look.
That time, there was about 4 working days from getting the phone call (at work) to having the scan. During that weekend, I was a basket case, emotions from - it's nothing to worry about, it will all be fine to planning my funeral right down to the songs I wanted played at the service.
the second time - I was concerned, but since all was well the first time, I was a lot less stressed.
both times, all is well - I don't have to go back until later this year (I'm 46), and there is a history of cancer in the family.
Positive thoughts going your way |
Jamey
http://alilbitofpaperandalilbitofglue.blogspot.com/ | |
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Fuji
PeaAddict
PeaNut 83,512
April 2003
Posts: 1,083
Layouts: 0
Loc: a little house on the prairie
| Posted: 2/12/2013 5:33:47 PM
BTT for an update in the OP. | |
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gmcwife1
SamFan
PeaNut 33,625
March 2002
Posts: 8,104
Layouts: 0
Loc: Washington State
| Posted: 2/12/2013 6:08:21 PM
Thank you for the update, I'm glad it was good news!!
~ Dori ~
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Peabay
Happy now?
PeaNut 156,993
July 2004
Posts: 44,813
Layouts: 13
Loc: Connecticut
| Posted: 2/12/2013 6:26:45 PM
I'm so glad it was nothing! |
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flanz
AncestralPea
PeaNut 211,902
June 2005
Posts: 4,686
Layouts: 2
| Posted: 2/12/2013 6:54:13 PM
Finally getting here to say, please don't worry... and happy to read your update! | |
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SuzastampinCTMH
PeaFixture
PeaNut 157,667
July 2004
Posts: 3,864
Layouts: 15
Loc: Upstate NY
| Posted: 2/13/2013 10:31:53 AM
That's great news! Now you can breath again |
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Pete & Nico
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