I Am Undergoing Testing for Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Pathway Overview:
This CancerMap explains why breast cancer testing is recommended, what to expect next, and practical tips to help you navigate the testing process.
Being referred for breast imaging or a biopsy does not necessarily mean that you have breast cancer. Many people who undergo breast imaging or a biopsy are ultimately found to have a non-cancerous condition. The purpose of testing is to gather the information needed to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the most appropriate next steps.
The first step is often breast imaging. Depending on your age, symptoms, and the nature of the concern, testing may begin with a diagnostic mammogram, an ultrasound, or both. These tests help the healthcare team better understand what is causing the breast change.
Additional testing may be recommended if more information is needed. If imaging identifies an area that requires closer evaluation, a biopsy may be recommended. A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue so it can be examined under a microscope.
Some tests may be completed on the same day, while others may require separate appointments. The exact sequence of testing varies from person to person. Your healthcare team will explain the tests being recommended and what to expect.
You will usually be contacted with appointment details and instructions. The imaging center or clinic performing the testing will provide information about the date, time, location, and any preparation required before your appointment.
Being sent for testing by a healthcare professional is often stressful, especially when dealing with a potential breast cancer. This section shares tips from people that have been through this and from healthcare professionals. After reviewing the information below, you may find it helpful to look at the “Quick Reference Guide” at the top of the page. It includes a checklist to help you address your health concern and move forward.
Ask about timelines, and follow up if you think something has been missed. When you are referred for testing, make sure to ask when you can expect to hear about the appointment time or place. Similarly, if you have had a test, ask when you can expect to get the test results. If you have not received the test or appointment when expected, or if you have not heard about your results, contact the healthcare provider or clinic involved in your care.
Focus on what you can control. Waiting for tests and results can feel overwhelming because much of the process is outside your control. Many people find it helpful to focus on things they can influence, such as getting enough sleep, eating well, staying physically active, attending appointments, writing down questions, and maintaining routines that support their wellbeing.
Recognize that a wide range of emotions is normal. Waiting for testing and results can be emotionally exhausting. People commonly experience worry, fear, sadness, anger, numbness, or periods of emotional disconnection. These feelings may come and go unexpectedly. Many people find it helpful to talk with trusted family members, friends, healthcare professionals, or to write down their thoughts and feelings rather than carrying them alone.
"It's normal to spiral with worry and fear of the unknown while waiting. It's important to lean on your support people for comfort and safety. It's important to take space for these feelings. It can be helpful to try to offload them from your mind by talking with someone else or writing them down so you can find some peace during the process."
— Breast cancer contributor
Lean on supportive people. Consider reaching out to family members, friends, or others you trust. Some people find it helpful to identify a small group of supportive people who can provide practical help, accompany them to appointments, or simply listen when they need support.
Think about how you want to receive information. In some regions, test results and reports may become available through online patient portals before you meet with your healthcare provider. Some people prefer to review information as soon as it becomes available, while others prefer to wait and discuss results with their healthcare team. Consider which approach is likely to be most helpful for you. Medical reports often contain technical language that can be difficult to interpret without clinical context.
Be thoughtful about information sources. Many people look online for information while waiting for tests or results. Online information can be helpful, but it can also be overwhelming and may not apply to your situation. Consider using trusted sources and remember that a diagnosis cannot be made from symptoms alone. If you have questions about information you find online, discuss them with your healthcare team.
"I wish I would have known that trying to do my own research and consume as much information online as I could would be overwhelming and induce anxiety."
— Breast cancer contributor
Consider your future goals and priorities. Periods of uncertainty can prompt people to think about what is most important to them, including family, relationships, work, finances, travel, or other personal goals. If a cancer diagnosis is eventually confirmed, some treatment decisions may be influenced by these priorities. For example, people who may wish to have children in the future should discuss fertility preservation with their healthcare team as early as possible, as some options are most effective when considered before treatment begins.
Understand how your testing will be arranged. Ask the healthcare provider ordering the tests where the referral is being sent, how appointments are typically booked, and what timeframe you can expect before hearing from the testing center. Knowing what to expect can reduce uncertainty and help you identify when follow-up may be needed.
Follow up if you have not heard about an appointment. If you have not been contacted within the expected timeframe, consider contacting the testing center or the healthcare provider who ordered the tests to confirm that the referral was received and to ask for an update. Most delays are not emergencies, but following up can help identify administrative issues and provide reassurance.
Prepare for your testing appointment. Consider bringing your health card, a list of medications, and any questions you would like answered. If the testing center is unfamiliar to you, consider allowing extra time for travel, parking, registration, and finding the correct location.
Write down important information and questions. Many people find it helpful to keep a list of questions, appointments, test dates, and results. Having information organized in one place can make it easier to communicate with healthcare providers and participate in decisions about your care.
Continue looking after your overall wellbeing. Waiting for testing and results can be stressful. Maintaining healthy routines such as regular physical activity, adequate sleep, nutritious eating, and connection with supportive people may help you cope during this period.
Trusted Resources on This Topic
What to Expect During an Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy - Content from the Radiological Society of North America
Understanding Screening and Diagnostic Mammograms - Content from the Radiological Society of North America
What Is a Breast MRI and When Is It Used? - Content from the Radiological Society of North America
Understanding Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsies - Content from the Radiological Society of North America
Related Topics You May Be Wondering About
Using the Internet To Navigate the Cancer Journey - Content from CancerMaps Inc.
Cancer and Work - Content from McGill University, Montreal Canada
Coping with Anxiety, Stress, and Uncertainty – Content from the Canadian Cancer Society
Research Related to This Topic
Educational resourc can help you understand the cancer journey. People can help you navigate it. While online resources can be valuable, sometimes the most helpful support comes from another person.
Your healthcare team is often a good place to start. Many communities also offer cancer navigators, counsellors, peer supporters, and other services that can provide guidance, support, and practical assistance.
Explore the CancerMaps Real-People Resources Directory to find organizations that can connect you with navigators, counsellors, peer supporters, and other people who can help.
First Published: June 8, 2026
Initial Development: Content based on a data collected and analyzed as part of the CancerMaps research project. Iteratively reviewed with study participants until content and study results finalized.
Date Reviewed: No formal review/update has take place to date.
Click here for more information about the CancerMaps project, findings, and how to use the CancerMaps format.
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