A breast ultrasound (breast echoscopy) is a non-invasive way to assess breast tissue and detect changes in it.
You can book a consultation with a breast specialist (mammologist), during which the breast ultrasound is performed.
Where medically indicated, the clinic performs ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration or core needle biopsy of a breast lesion.
If a breast condition is found, Baltic American Clinic specialists can continue its investigation and treatment and, where medically indicated, plan surgical treatment.
Diagnostics, specialist consultations and any further treatment needed can be organised at one clinic.
When is a breast ultrasound recommended?
It is worth having your breasts examined if:
- you have felt a lump or thickening in the breast;
- you have new or persistent breast pain;
- you have noticed changes in the shape, size or skin of the breast;
- you have noticed changes in the nipple or the area around it;
- you have unusual nipple discharge;
- a breast change found earlier needs further assessment;
- the doctor has recommended a breast ultrasound.
If you notice a new change in the breast or nipple, do not try to assess it yourself. The doctor decides which tests are needed in your individual situation.
What can a breast ultrasound assess?
Ultrasound can assess breast tissue and any changes in it. The examination helps to determine the location and size of a lump and its other features that can be assessed by ultrasound.
If a change is found that needs further investigation, the doctor decides which further diagnostic steps are needed.
If a more detailed investigation is needed, Baltic American Clinic also performs ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration or core needle biopsy of a breast lesion. The doctor decides whether a biopsy is needed in each case.
How is a breast ultrasound performed?
The breasts are examined with an ultrasound machine. A special gel is applied to the skin, and the doctor examines the breast tissue with an ultrasound probe.
Ultrasound uses no ionising radiation. The skin is not damaged during the examination.
Does a breast ultrasound replace a mammogram?
No. Breast ultrasound and mammography are different diagnostic tests, so one does not automatically replace the other.
A breast ultrasound can be done as a stand-alone examination or used for additional assessment of breast tissue and changes that have been found. Which test or combination of tests a particular patient needs depends on her individual situation and the doctor’s recommendations.
A breast ultrasound does not replace a mammogram performed under the national breast cancer early detection programme.
Do I need to prepare for a breast ultrasound?
Usually no special preparation is needed for a breast ultrasound.
If you have had a breast ultrasound, mammogram, MRI, biopsy or other breast tests before, it is worth having the earlier results with you at the consultation. They can help the doctor to assess and compare changes in the breasts.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a breast ultrasound as a preventive check if I have no symptoms?
Yes, a breast ultrasound can also be done as a preventive check. However, the most suitable way to check the breasts depends on your individual situation, so an ultrasound does not replace other breast tests recommended by the doctor.
Is a breast ultrasound painful?
A breast ultrasound is a non-invasive examination – the skin is not damaged. During the examination the doctor examines the breast tissue with an ultrasound probe.
Can a breast ultrasound be done during pregnancy?
Ultrasound uses no ionising radiation. If you notice a breast change or have other symptoms during pregnancy, see a doctor about the tests needed.
Can a breast ultrasound be done while breastfeeding?
Yes. If a new lump, persistent pain or another breast change appears while you are breastfeeding, do not wait until you stop breastfeeding – the doctor will decide which tests are needed in your situation.
On which day of the menstrual cycle is it best to have a breast ultrasound?
If the examination is being done because of a new lump or another worrying breast change, it should not be postponed just because of the day of your cycle. If the ultrasound is planned as a preventive check and your doctor has given you individual recommendations on timing, follow them.
What happens if a lump is found during the ultrasound?
Finding a lump does not in itself mean a malignant disease. The doctor assesses the findings and, if further investigation is needed, explains the next diagnostic steps. Where medically indicated, Baltic American Clinic performs ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration or core needle biopsy of a breast lesion.
Do I need a doctor’s referral for a breast ultrasound?
When booking a paid breast ultrasound at Baltic American Clinic, it is advisable to check with the clinic’s reception whether a referral is needed and how best to book.
Breast ultrasound price
The price of a breast ultrasound is set by the Baltic American Clinic price list in force at the time.