One of the first questions I have been asked is was this found through an annual visit to the OB or did I find it myself?
I am proud to say that I listened to something in me that said this doesn't feel right and to get in to see the doctor sooner than my annual appointment which was supposed to be in June/July.
If there is one thing that even a single person takes from my experience it would be to advocate for yourself!
Know your body, stand behind your need to get answers and work with doctors who hear you.
I am blessed to have visited Heather N. Barhorst, DO, Obstetrics and Gynecology through Tri-Health.
I went in with a recent finding of a bump on the exterior side of my right breast. Dr. Barhorst and I discussed the likelihood of my recent findings to be Fibrocystic breast tissue based on hormonal changes, historical findings and family history. Fibrocystic breasts are composed of tissue that feels lumpy or ropelike in texture. Doctors call this nodular or glandular breast tissue. (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibrocystic-breasts/symptoms-causes/syc-20350438) However, Dr. Barhorst wanted to check all of the boxes and make sure we got this right!
Two weeks following my appt with Dr. Barhorst I visited Good Samaritan Hospital Breast Center in Clifton for a routine Mammogram. Those results were inconclusive due to my dense tissue, but again the radiologist who ready my mammogram and who felt the breast in question sounded positive and even suggested that it moved and tumors do not move. I left that appointment emotional as this journey is hard to swallow, but convinced that I was just doing due diligence to be certain I was in the clear.
Two weeks following my mammogram I went in for an ultrasound led biopsy. As mentioned, I had a previous biopsy in 2016 on the same breast that was benign. The appointment was once again emotional as I put on the Pink Shirt and met some incredible healthcare providers. I was quickly put to ease with very personal ultrasound tech, student and Dr. Chun. While I understood it could result in cancer, it wasn't until Monday as I (impatiently) awaited my results that the fear grew inside of me and my stomach was in a knot.
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