Soooo yesterday was the big day. Having heard all the horror stories of the pain and awkwardness (not to mention one particular story of at mammogram tech with a heavy eastern European accent) I was a little nervous going into the appointment.
It's not like you can prepare mentally for the experience. Similar to childbirth, everyone tells you their horror stories, never the good stuff. So I made my way to the clinic. No deodorant, no perfumes, and NO CAFFEINE! Really, I was not allowed even one little cup of coffee for 24 hours before. Now that's what I call pain. I almost resorted to herbal tea!
Thankfully the waiting room was fairly vacant of other patients, and I didn't need to wait that long. The process was relatively quick and painless. Although very awkward socially. I was actually surprised by the fact that it was not painful. I have heard that those of us who are 'gifted' have an easier time with this process. Finally, a reason to be thankful for my particular 'giftedness'
The radiologist told me that she didn't see anything that they should be concerned about, but wants me to come in for an ultrasound in a couple weeks. Even though I really wasn't too worried about the lump I found last week, I am thankful that I went to my doctor to make sure. These are the things we should not put off. The fact that we live in Canada and can have our pap tests and mammograms for free means there is never a reason not to go.
So glad that you went right away for the mammo.
ReplyDeleteI am glad that it wasn't painful for you, and yes being 'gifted' does help. Where was Diane while you went in for this? Call me for a chat this weekend.
Welcome to the wonderful world of middle-aged womanhood, dear sister! I've had several mammograms and two ultrasounds all due to my "lumpy" brrrrreasts (say this out loud with that European accent... it's HILARIOUS!). I honestly think my Dr. is terrified of my breasts as she pretty much hyperventilates when she does my annual palpitation exam. It almost makes me laugh... until I think that I really should take her half seriously. So, even though I have told myself I will never do another mammogram / ultra sound, I still keep going because I like the peace of mind afterward. Just knowing (one way or the other) is certainly worth that social awkwardness. I just "chat it up" with the techs (if they're fluent in English).
ReplyDelete"So, whatever made you decide to go into THIS particular field"?
"Do you ever get tired of handling sweaty breasts all day"?
"Have you ever had a mammogram"?
"They told me NOT to wear deodorant and I'm grumpy 'cause I haven't had a cup of coffee in 24 HOURS!"
Anyway, I'm glad to hear the tech isn't concerned and now you have a base line to go from. Now, go have a big POT of coffee to make up for the past 24 hours and thank God that He is Sovereign and in control of every detail in our lives.
Love you lottsa!!
PS Now that you know what is "normal" for you, keep up with those self-exams!!! Pretty soon you will know those knockers like the back of your hand ;-)
ReplyDeleteJust thinkin' about ya. Did you go for that ultrasound yet?
ReplyDeleteYes, I went last week. The tech said that my Dr. would get the results but that I shouldn't spend much energy worrying about this one. So, I haven't. :-)
ReplyDelete