When will I be invited for my breast screening appointment?

Following the National Breast Screening Programme guidance, all eligible women (registered as female with their GP) aged between 50 and 71 are invited for breast screening every three years. 

You are not automatically called at the age of 50. Some women can be 52 before their first screen. All eligible women should receive an invite before their 53rd birthday.

Your appointment will be sent to you by letter, and a text message reminder will be sent if we have your mobile number.

The appointment will take place at one of our mobile or static units. We try to offer screening at a location as local to your home address as possible.

What to expect at your appointment

At your appointment, you will be seen by female members of staff. You will be asked to confirm your identity details, such as name, address, and date of birth. You will also be asked questions about your breasts, including whether you're currently experiencing any breast symptoms you're concerned about, whether you've ever had breast surgery, and whether you've ever had a mammogram before.

You will be asked to remove any clothing above your waist. This will either be in a cubicle or the x-ray room. If in a cubicle, you will be asked to put your top back on until you are in the x-ray room. For your comfort and dignity, we ask you to wear 'separates' i.e a top and skirt or trousers, rather than a dress. This is because we do not provide gowns.

The mammographer will explain the procedure to you and ask if you are happy ton continue with the exam. Once the images are taken, the examination is complete. You will then be given time to get dressed and are free to leave. The appointment usually takes around 15 minutes in total.

How do I change my screening appointment?

If the time, date, or location of your screening is not suitable for you, please contact the screening office on 01904 725590/91 and we will be happy to rearrange the appointment for you. You can also email us at yhs-tr.NorthYorkshire.BreastScreeningService@nhs.net.

How do I cancel my screening appointment if I don't want to be screened?

We would always encourage you to attend your screening appointment but respect your decision if you decide not to. If you've received an invitation but decided you do not want to attend, contact the screening office on 01904 725590/91 or email yhs-tr.NorthYorkshire.BreastScreeningService@nhs.net.

If you change your mind at a later date, you can contact us any time.

You may find these pages useful:

• Breast screening: helping women decide - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• Breast screening: helping women decide (alternative languages) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

What if I miss my appointment?

If you miss your appointment, you can contact the screening office on 01904 725590/91 to arrange a further appointment at your convenience.